Full course description
For the discounted group rate (8 or more individuals), contact continuinged@nau.edu
For students, do not register here; contact continuinged@nau.edu with a valid .edu email address to receive the student rate
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Program Description
The 2026 High Country Public Service Academy is an immersive summer conference training designed for professionals and leaders across sectors who are committed to strengthening their impact in public service. This dynamic program focuses on developing effective leadership skills, professional resilience, and adaptive strategies needed to navigate today’s complex public-sector challenges. Participants will engage in interactive sessions, collaborative workshops, and meaningful dialogue that foster peer-to-peer learning and lasting professional connections.
Attendees will learn directly from experienced practitioners and subject-matter experts, gaining practical insights they can immediately apply within their organizations and communities. The Academy emphasizes collaboration, reflection, and innovation, creating a supportive environment where public servants can recharge, refine their leadership approach, and broaden their perspectives.
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Schedule at a Glance:
Theme: Investing in the Future of Public Service
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Date |
Time |
Session |
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Day 1 – July 30, 2026 |
9:00– 9:45 a.m. |
Check-In & Registration |
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10:00– 10:30 a.m. |
Welcome & Overview |
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10:30– 11:45 a.m. |
Training Session 1: Communicating in Crisis – Your Success Story |
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12:00– 1:15 p.m. |
Lunch & Keynote |
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1:15– 2:45 p.m. |
Training Session 2: Workplace Fatigue – Roadmap to Resilience |
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3:00– 4:15 p.m. |
Training Session 3: Future- Ready Leadership – Succession Planning |
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4:30– 5:30 p.m. |
Wine & Cheese Networking Reception |
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Day 2 – July 31, 2026 |
8:30– 10:00 a.m. |
Training Session 4: The Future of AI in Government & Public Services |
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10:15– 11:45 a.m. |
Training Session 5: Attracting Tomorrow’s Workforce – Building a Talent Pipeline |
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12:00– 12:30 p.m. |
Closing Remarks & Reception |
Speaker Highlights
AZ Secretary of State Adrian Fontes: In 2022, Adrian Fontes was elected as Arizona's 21st Secretary of State. Secretary Fontes is a proud Arizona native, an honorable veteran of the United States Marine Corps, and the father of three daughters, who has spent a lifetime fighting for justice and defending our Democracy.Secretary Fontes served on active duty from 1992 to 1996 and was nominated for a meritorious commission. His service to our country taught him the importance of dedication, discipline, and sacrifice to forcefully fight for the American dream. After graduating from law school, Secretary Fontes spent his career advocating for justice and fighting for those who are disadvantaged — first as a prosecutor with the Denver District Attorney and then at the Maricopa County Attorney’s office. He later led the International Prosecution Unit at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. He practiced law for 15 years before running for office in 2016 when he was elected Maricopa County Recorder. As Recorder, Secretary Fontes revolutionized the election system by ensuring that every eligible Arizonan had the access they needed to vote. Adrian enhanced ballot tracking technology and increased process transparency, winning recognition and awards from election organizations across the country. In 2020, at the height of the Covid-19 crisis and amidst violent protests, Maricopa County saw record voter turnout, as well as record numbers of new voters registered for both parties. Secretary Fontes later testified before Congress to inform them of threats facing election officials. Secretary Fontes is committed to preserving integrity in our elections, making voting easier for registered voters, and ensuring that Arizona’s business community has a non-partisan partner in the Secretary’s office.
Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett: Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett is a decisive problem-solver who is skilled at building consensus and cultivating trust and respect. With an awareness that real change requires contrasting perspectives at the table, she is an effective and confident leader who actively invites all voices and ideas into municipal decision-making. A longstanding community advocate, Mayor Daggett brings her signature drive and strategic approach to address Flagstaff’s most pressing issues. Her advocacy combines thorough research with the expertise of trusted colleagues. Regardless of the issue, she skillfully balances competing interests and prioritizes doing what she believes is right–even when it’s not the easiest path.
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Location: Hosted in Flagstaff, Arizona, the conference offers more than professional development - it offers an experience. Nestled among ponderosa pines, Flagstaff is beautiful in the summertime, with cool mountain air, scenic landscapes, and access to outdoor recreation, local culture, and historic charm. The setting provides the perfect backdrop for learning, networking, and renewal, making the High Country Public Service Academy an ideal reason to plan a summer trip that is both professionally rewarding and personally refreshing.
Conference Dates: July 30th & July 31st, 2026
Cost: Early Bird Bate until May 1st, 2026 - $200.00; Regular rate after 5/1 - $220.00
- Group discount rate of $195.00 available; contact continuinged@nau.edu for groups of 8 or more
- Student discount rate of $75.00 available for students with a valid .edu email address. Please contact continuinged@nau.edu to register as a student
Parking: Parking is available on NAU's campus at a rate of $16.00/vehicle/day.
Registration Deadline: Early Bird Rate, May 1, 2026; Regular Rate, Wednesday, July 15th, 2026
Credentials Offered: An NAU digital badge will be awarded at the conclusion of the workshop. Click the badge image below to view the badge's webpage.
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Hotel Registration Information:
You will find information for online reservation linked below. If you have questions or need help with the link, please do not hesitate to ask at continuinged@nau.edu.
Hotel(s) offering a special group rate:
- Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff for 144.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Book your group rate for High Country Public Service Academy
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Flagstaff for 144.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Book your group rate for High Country Public Service Academy
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Flagstaff for 144.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book: Monday, June 29, 2026
Embassy Suites Flagstaff Hotel
- Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff for 144.00 USD per night - Last Day to Book: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- Rate only available within the designated date range (7/29/26 - 8/1/26)
- Select Special Rate and navigate to Promotion Code
- Promotion Code: PSA
- Select 'Find Rates' and select two queens at the rate of 144.00 USD per night
- When viewing rates, please ensure 'Public Service Academy' appears next to the rate
- Contact continuinged@nau.edu with questions or concerns regarding this process
Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff Hotel & Lodging
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For questions or concerns, please contact: ContinuingEd@nau.edu
Accessibility
Professional disability specialists are available at Disability Resources to facilitate a range of academic support services and accommodations for students with disabilities. If you have a documented disability, you can request assistance by contacting Disability Resources at 928-523-8773 or dr@nau.edu.
Refunds
Registrants may withdraw from the conference with a full refund up to one week prior to the course start date. There is a 50% administration fee for withdrawals from one week prior to the course start date until the day the program begins. After the start date, refunds are no longer available.