Cole Neder

Cole Neder

Cole Neder is a municipal planning professional with expertise in project management, community engagement, and plan implementation initiatives. His career journey began as a Community Development Intern with the City of Highland Park from 2019 to 2021. During this period, he also completed his Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Metropolitan Development at DePaul University.

Starting in 2021, Cole served as an LTA Planner with the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP), providing technical assistance to communities in Northeastern Illinois. His commitment to making municipal government more efficient and equitable led him to his current role as Senior Transit Planner with the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG).

Cole has focused on plan implementation from a regional level, working on projects for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), local Unified Development Ordinances (UDOs), and other capital improvement and management projects. His experiences at both CMAP and DRCOG, working with diverse local governments and transit agencies, have equipped him with unique insights into regional and local planning activities.

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Masters in Public Administration Programs in the State of Iowa

Introduction As a prospective Master of Public Administration (MPA) student considering programs in the State of Iowa, there are several compelling reasons to explore this region for your graduate studies. First and foremost, Iowa offers a relatively affordable cost of living, including housing, compared to many other states, making it an attractive option for students … Read more

Masters in Public Administration Programs in the State of Arkansas

Introduction Studying for an MPA degree in Arkansas offers several perks. The state’s relatively low cost of living makes it more affordable for students, especially when compared to larger cities. Arkansas also boasts a strong sense of community, which can be beneficial for networking and building relationships in the public administration field. As an MPA … Read more

Masters in Public Administration Programs in the State of Arizona

Introduction Arizona is an ideal destination for students looking to pursue a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. With its reputable universities, such as Arizona State University (ASU), the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University, Arizona offers top-notch MPA programs that are designed to prepare students for successful careers in public service. These programs … Read more

Transportation Resource Guide for Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities

Introduction Caregivers often bear the responsibility of providing transportation, with over 40 percent of older and disabled adults relying on family, friends, or neighbors for rides. A 2021 survey by the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC), administered by USAging and Easterseals, found that around three-quarters of caregivers list providing or arranging transport as … Read more

Masters in Public Administration Certifications

Embarking on a career in public administration can open doors to a myriad of opportunities in government, nonprofit organizations, and beyond. As you delve into this field, you may encounter various options for advancing your education and expertise, including Master of Public Administration (MPA) certifications.  In this blog post, we’ll explore the diverse landscape of … Read more

Essential Skills Necessary for Success: The Field of Public Administration

Introduction Mastering the skills necessary for success in the field of public administration is essential for both students and working professionals alike. Public administration encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, from managing government agencies and implementing policies to serving the needs of the public efficiently and effectively. To excel in this field, individuals must possess … Read more

No GRE Required: Masters in Public Administration Programs

Introduction Many schools, including MPA (Master of Public Administration) graduate programs, have opted to waive the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) requirement for admission due to various reasons. One significant factor is a growing recognition of the limitations and potential biases associated with standardized test scores. The GRE, like many standardized tests, has faced criticism for … Read more

Public Administration vs. Master of Social Work: What Degree is Right for You?

Introduction Are you passionate about making a difference in your community or society at large? Considering a career in public service but unsure whether a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or a Master of Social Work (MSW) is the right path for you? Both degrees offer unique opportunities to address social issues and contribute to … Read more

Masters in Public Administration (MPA) vs. Masters in Public Policy (MPP): What’s the Difference?

Introduction Systemic change that makes a difference in people’s lives often begins at the policy level. Policies dictate all manner of public life, from the healthcare we receive to environmental protection regulations. If you have strong convictions to assess social issues and implement effective policies, you might find yourself choosing between a Master of Public … Read more

Public Administration vs. International Administration: What Degree is Right for You?

Introduction When considering a career in government and public service, individuals often contemplate pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or a Master of International Administration (MIA). Deciding between these two degrees can be challenging and depends on a student’s interests and professional goals. The primary distinction between an MPA and an MIA lies in … Read more