Faculty Spotlight: LSU Department of Public Administration
The 2025 University Faculty Awards celebrated the accomplishments of outstanding LSU faculty. Among the honorees was Dr. Suzette Caleo, associate professor in the Department of Public Administration, who received the LSU Foundation Distinguished Graduate Faculty Teaching Award. This recognition highlights her excellence in teaching and underscores the value of LSU’s online Master of Public Administration program, offered through LSU Online and the E.J. Ourso College of Business.
“I am incredibly honored to receive the LSU Foundation Distinguished Graduate Faculty Teaching Award,” Dr. Caleo said. “When I began teaching MPA students over a decade ago, I was immediately struck by their curiosity, commitment, and motivation to serve the public. That impression has only grown stronger over time. Their desire to apply what they learn in the classroom is inspiring and energizing.”
Dr. Caleo’s award reflects her commitment to helping students build a strong foundation for success in public service through courses in organizational behavior, human resource management, and research methods. With research expertise in organizational justice and workplace diversity, she prepares students to be fair and impactful leaders.
“I have a passion for sharing my knowledge of organizations, human resource management, and data analysis, and I feel fortunate to teach students who are equally passionate about making a difference,” she added. “This award is a meaningful recognition—not just of my teaching, but also of the students who challenge, motivate, and teach me in return.”
Dr. Caleo also emphasized the value of the program: “The MPA program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in government, nonprofit, and policy-focused roles. The curriculum blends theory and practice, giving students a strong foundation in public administration along with the tools needed to solve complex problems. You don’t have to look far to see the impact of the program; our alumni are putting their degrees to work in meaningful ways.”
Learn From Award-Winning Faculty through LSU Online
The recent faculty awards highlight the impact of educators like Dr. Caleo in LSU’s Department of Public Administration. Students can learn from her and other award-winning faculty through the following program:
In this program, online LSU students gain practical skills to lead and manage public organizations, contribute to policy and administrative processes, and confidently solve complex problems.
Graduates go on to serve in federal, state, and local governments, support legislative work on Capitol Hill, and lead in healthcare and other industries.
If you’re passionate about public service and ready to lead, explore the online MPA program through LSU Online today.
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