Arkansas State University has announced the establishment of the John Baine MPA Excellence Endowment Fund, a $50,000 endowed gift from alumnus John Baine, to benefit students in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program.
The fund will provide MPA students with access to professional development opportunities, including support for attending conferences, workshops and training that enhance networking, research and career readiness.
“The John Baine MPA Excellence Endowment Fund will have an immediate and long-term impact on our students,” said Dr. Cameron Wimpy, chair for the Department of Government, Law and Policy. “Opportunities for professional development are critical in preparing public service leaders — and few master’s programs offer support of this kind. Mr. Baine’s generosity sets our program apart.”
The fund will also raise the program’s profile and strengthen its standing with the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the program’s accrediting body.
Baine, of El Dorado and a former State Representative, has previously made philanthropic commitments to support other A‑State scholarship and faculty excellence funds, including the Dr. Jane Gates Endowed Scholarship, the Dr. Stanley Vanagunas Memorial Public Administration Endowment, and the John Baine Scholarship Endowment.
“Supporting the MPA program is an investment in the future of public service,” said Baine. “As an A-State graduate, I know firsthand the value of a strong academic foundation paired with real-world experience. This endowment is about opening doors — allowing students to grow, connect and lead. I’m proud to give back to a program that continues to shape principled, service-minded leaders for our communities.”