The Canadian Association of Programs in Public Administration (CAPPA) is pleased to highlight the success of its Annual Conference 2026, held on May 20 and 21 at the University of Ottawa, hosted by the Centre on Governance.
Bringing together some 50 participants, the event featured 33 academic presentations as well as a roundtable discussion with public administration practitioners. Under the theme “Revaluing Public Action: The Quiet Excellence of Public Administration,” this year’s conference provided a unique forum for reflection and discussion on the fundamental role of public administrations in our contemporary societies.
Acknowledgments
CAPPA would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals, without whom this edition could not have taken place. First and foremost, it sincerely thanks Professor Éric Champagne and his entire team for the excellent organization of the event. It would also like to thank Professor Isabelle Caron, Professor Andrea Rounce, and Professor Guillaume Revillod for developing a highly interesting conference theme and a scientific program of the highest quality.
CAPPA extends its warmest thanks to the Centre on Governance (COG) for hosting the event, as well as to the Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation (OVPRI) and the Alex Trebek Forum for Dialogue at the University of Ottawa for their support.
Finally, CAPPA would like to thank all the participants and volunteers, without whom this conference could not have been such a success.
Summary
The presentations and discussions demonstrated that excellence in public administration is not only reflected in major reforms or spectacular initiatives, but also in the consistent quality of services provided to citizens, rigorous management of public resources, and the ability of organizations to adapt to a constantly changing environment. Discussions among researchers, practitioners, and students highlighted the importance of innovation, collaboration, and professionalism in addressing the complex challenges facing governments today.
This conference also highlighted the need to better recognize and value the contribution of public administrations to the common good. In a context marked by technological transformations, environmental challenges, and growing public expectations, public institutions must continually demonstrate their ability to adapt while upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Beyond its rich academic program, this conference provided a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, develop new perspectives, and strengthen ties between the academic community and public administration practitioners. It highlighted that the quiet excellence of public administrations remains an essential pillar of democratic governance and the development of resilient societies.