Brandman University Announces MPA Students Cindy Smith and Janice Voshall Have Been Honored by PublicCEO.com

IRVINE, Calif., March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Brandman University, a member of the Chapman University System, today announced that Cindy Smith and Janice Voshall have been recognized by PublicCEO.com with their 2011 Service to California Award.  Smith and Voshall are students in Brandman University's Masters in Public Administration (MPA) program who, as interns for Laguna Hills Councilwoman Barbara Kogerman, collected data on 34 cities for the Orange County City Manager Compensation report.  The report was followed by others exposing exorbitant compensation, including the City of Bell.

"Thanks to their determined efforts, a groundbreaking study was produced that set in motion a public discussion about local government that has had tremendous implications.  New legislation in California to make local government more transparent, accountable, and responsible is partly a result of Cindy and Janice's work.  We are very proud of them," said Dr. Fred Smoller, director of Brandman's MPA program.

"Cindy Smith and Janice Voshall exemplify the values of Brandman University.  These two students are working adults with numerous responsibilities who have overcome enormous personal challenges to return to school and build a career.  They are among our first class of graduates from Brandman's MPA program and as future alumni reflect great honor on the university.  Their research and contributions have helped to strengthen not only the program, but also local and state government," said Chancellor Gary Brahm.

PublicCEO.com is a local government news site dedicated to providing a statewide perspective on California's cities, counties and special districts.  The Annual Local Government Awards recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to local government.

About Brandman University

Brandman University is a private, non-profit institution accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Established in 1958 and a part of the Chapman University System, Brandman blends a legacy of academic excellence with progressive, innovative curriculum and strong support services designed for working professionals. Solely dedicated to the working adult, Brandman provides a liberal arts educational foundation by using technology that engages learners.  The university serves more than 10,000 students in 200+ undergraduate and graduate degree, certificate, credential and professional development programs in arts and sciences, business, education and health, offered online and at 26 campuses in California and Washington.  For more information, visit www.brandman.edu.

SOURCE Brandman University