The School of Public Affairs (SPA) is proud to announce that two alumni, Brandy Reitter and Kathleen E. Hodgson, have been named 250 Champions as part of the national Government Champions 250 Initiative, led by the National Academy of Public Administration and LocalGov250.

Announced from Washington, D.C., the 250 Champions Initiative recognizes exceptional public servants from across the country who exemplify “democracy at the doorstep” through dedication, innovation, and the highest standards of public service. The honor is part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, marking the United States' upcoming 250th anniversary.

“There are many leaders working in government across the country who are deserving of recognition, and this year marks an especially important time for our country to honor them,” said James Christian Blockwood, President and CEO of the National Academy of Public Administration. “These 250 Champions are truly special and make a difference in our everyday lives.”

A National Honor Reflecting Government at Its Best

The 250 Champions represent a broad and diverse range of public servants from all levels of government. Honorees include professionals from mayor's offices, public works departments, parks and recreation, public health, libraries, and emergency services, illustrating the many ways public administration strengthens communities.

Each honoree was nominated by a peer or fellow public administration professional and selected after a competitive review process. The Local Gov 250 Coalition and the National Academy of Public Administration reviewed hundreds of submissions from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond in service to the public.

“250 Champions is an outstanding opportunity to recognize the important role of local government in implementing democracy every day,” said Wally Bobkiewicz, city administrator of Issaquah, Washington, and member of the Local Gov 250 selection committee. “A key element of the initiative has been recognizing all the professions that make local government work.”

Advancing Public Service in Colorado

Among this year's honorees are two alumni whose careers reflect the values and impact of public affairs education.

Brandy Reitter, Executive Director of the Colorado Broadband Office within the Governor's Office of Information Technology, is recognized for her leadership in expanding equitable access to broadband across the state. Her work supports economic development, education, healthcare access, and civic participation, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Kathleen E. Hodgson, City Manager of the City of Lakewood, is honored for her distinguished leadership in municipal government. In her role, Hodgson oversees city operations and implements policy direction in partnership with elected officials, guiding one of Colorado’s largest cities with a commitment to transparency, service excellence, and community engagement.

Honoring Service Ahead of America 250

To be eligible for the award, honorees must be currently employed in government or have retired within the last ten years and demonstrate the highest standards of service to the public. The 250 Champions were selected and notified in early March.

Reitter and Hodgson will be formally honored at a national recognition event on May 12, 2026, in Philadelphia, held in advance of the ICMA National Conference.

SPA congratulates both alumni on this significant national recognition. Their achievements exemplify the impact of public service leadership and serve as an inspiration to students, alumni, and future public servants.