Public Servants Studied in Image and Essay

This latest work by highly regarded scholar of bureaucracy Charles T. Goodsell uses narrative essays and accompanying video profiles to bring to life the work and careers of individuals working for the common good in 12 essential jobs at all three levels of American government. The first book to explicitly encourage undergraduates to consider the public service as a careerPublic Servants Studied in Image and Essay offers an on-the-ground look at some of the careers available to them after graduation. It showcases the hard work and dedication of ordinary bureaucrats—rather than administrative leaders—to help students appreciate the nature and achievements of American bureaucracy. The book’s narratives are framed by an introduction and conclusion by Goodsell to provide context and to place them within the research on bureaucracy and public administration.

"This book is a great resource to introduce the field to those who are just thinking of becoming public administrators…The first book of its kind to focus not on managers but on the front-line employees themselves."
—Russell W. MillsBowling Green State University

This latest work by highly regarded scholar of bureaucracy Charles T. Goodsell uses narrative essays and accompanying video profiles to bring to life the work and careers of individuals working for the common good in 12 essential jobs at all three levels of American government. The first book to explicitly encourage undergraduates to consider the public service as a careerPublic Servants Studied in Image and Essay offers an on-the-ground look at some of the careers available to them after graduation. It showcases the hard work and dedication of ordinary bureaucrats—rather than administrative leaders—to help students appreciate the nature and achievements of American bureaucracy. The book’s narratives are framed by an introduction and conclusion by Goodsell to provide context and to place them within the research on bureaucracy and public administration. 

This book includes Exclusive! Video Interviews

Preface
Acknowledgements
Introductory Remarks
Part One: Public Safety
Ch. 1: Adam Price, ATF Special Agent
A Firearms Agency Under Fire
Ch. 2: Michael Bender, Police Captain
Cops Doing Mental Health
Ch. 3: Stephanie Pechura, Felon Rehabilitator
Tough Love in Action
Part Two: Public Environment
Ch. 4: Cindy Berndt, Regulation Expert
Unsung Heroine of Process
Ch. 5: Karen Wilson, Energy Advisor
The Public Policy Professional
Ch. 6: Howard Glenn, Drainage Master
Coaching a Team That Must Win
Part Three: Public Conservation
Ch. 7: Daniel McKeague, Forest Ranger
In the Habit of Change
Ch. 8: Dan Riccio, Livability Director
A Beautiful Place Kept That Way
Ch. 9: Keith Grupposo, Probation Officer
Giving Second Chances When Possible
Part Four: Public Well-Being
Ch. 10: Kathy Robertson, Homelessness Combatant
Making Homeless Programs Work
Ch. 11: Carla Holloman, Social Worker
Matured Professional Caretaking
Ch. 12: Jeffrey Richardson, County Manager
Much Responsibility Closely Watched
Review and Conclusions
Appendix
Index
About the Author