ASU Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions

10/01/2026

Please join us in welcoming Carissa Slotterback as dean of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions! 🎉

A nationally recognized leader in public affairs, urban planning and public service education, she joins us from the University of Pittsburgh, where she served as dean of the School of Public and International Affairs since 2020. We look forward to working alongside her to continue preparing future public servants and advancing solutions responsive to community needs. Welcome to Watts, Dean Slotterback!

09/28/2026

Community partners play an essential role in helping students connect classroom learning with real-world experience.
Recently, we recognized two outstanding community partners, the Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU and the Phoenix VA Hospital, with our annual awards in appreciation of their support, insight and commitment to experiential learning. We’re grateful for their partnership and look forward to another fantastic year of learning together.

09/23/2026

There's still time to RSVP! The 11th Annual Pastor Center for Politics and Public Service Luncheon will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 25, at the SRP PERA Club in Tempe, Arizona.

Guests will hear about student-led initiatives tackling pressing social and civic issues, celebrate this year’s award recipients and find out how to get involved with the Pastor Center’s work.

RSVP here: bit.ly/PastorLuncheon26

09/22/2026

Congratulations to our fall 2026 Public Service Advancement Program interns! This program gives students meaningful, hands-on experience in public service while supporting their academic and professional goals.

Emily Rubio, a junior majoring in social work with a minor in gender and sexuality studies, will intern with the OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute. As a first-generation student raised by a single mother, she understands the personal challenges her generation faces and the hard work and determination necessary to achieve one’s education goals. Her professional goal is to work in public policy to help shape better systems for minority communities.

Alexis Ashton Alba, a senior in Barrett, The Honors College, will intern with the Phoenix mayor’s office. He is pursuing degrees in political science, family and human development, and psychology. Growing up in a rural, low-income community, he has learned how local government, public programs and community partnerships can shape opportunities for individuals and families.

We can’t wait to see the impact Emily and Alexis will make this fall.

09/21/2026

Please join us in celebrating Dean Cynthia Lietz, who was named a distinguished alumna by Valparaiso University.

Cynthia Layman ‘91 Lietz has dedicated more than 30 years to improving lives through social work, higher education, and public service. Today, she serves as vice provost and dean of Arizona State University’s Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, where she leads a college serving more than 8,000 students.

Her journey began at Valparaiso University, where earning her B.A. in psychology sparked her passion for social work.

“Earning my undergraduate degree at Valpo changed my life,” Cynthia says. “It helped me uncover my passion for social work.”

A nationally recognized scholar and leader, Cynthia has received numerous honors, including the 2026 Stanlie James Legacy Inclusion Award.

09/17/2026

For more than a decade, the Pastor Center for Politics and Public Service has encouraged students to lead, serve and build stronger communities. Join us for the 11th Annual Pastor Center Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, at the SRP PERA Club in Tempe, Arizona.

Register to attend: bit.ly/PastorLuncheon26

We hope to see you there!

09/14/2026

Registration is open for the 7th annual Watts 5K: Run Walk Roll!

Join Watts College on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Papago Park for a 5K trail event built for runners, walkers and rollers. Help support Valley of the Sun United Way with a donation of $35 per person with a shirt or $25 per person without a shirt.

Register or donate: bit.ly/2026Watts5K

09/11/2026

Watts College students are taking public service learning around the world.

From Northern Ireland to Mexico, Kenya and Norway, study abroad programs are helping students experience different cultures, connect with people and places tied to their coursework, and better understand complex global issues.

Read more from ASU News: bit.ly/4ylAw3M

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day! Today, we honor the American labor movement and the dedication of workers across our country. In observance of the holiday, the university is closed and classes will not be held. Enjoy a safe and restful day off!

09/01/2026

🌎 Applications are now open for the Pathways to Global Social Work study abroad program for spring break 2027! Students will travel to Sonora, Mexico, for a service-learning opportunity focused on Mexican culture, social services, community programs and social justice issues impacting the region. Applications are due Nov. 15 and space is limited.

Apply: bit.ly/GlobalPathways27
Want to learn more? Sign up for our virtual info session on Sep. 18: bit.ly/45RsGCI