Effective December 31, 2024, Jim Robinson, Executive Director of the Center for Excellence in Public Leadership (CEPL), stepped down after more than 20 years of transformative leadership. Since 2003, Jim has elevated CEPL to national prominence as a hub for leadership development in municipal and federal government and the nonprofit sectors. His visionary guidance has shaped the Center's success, transforming thousands of public service leaders through innovative programs like the Program for Excellence in Municipal Management (PEMM), which has trained over 1,000 DC government leaders, and the Executive Leadership Program, now in its 10th cohort with over 200 alumni in executive roles.
Jim’s contributions have significantly enhanced GW’s reputation as a leader in professional education, leaving an indelible mark on the university and the many leaders he has inspired. His legacy will continue to guide CEPL as it builds on his vision of fostering impactful leadership.
On January 1, 2025, Dr. Natalie K. Houghtby-Haddon assumed the role of Executive Director of CEPL. Having served as Associate Director of CEPL since 2001 and as an Assistant Professor in the GW College of Professional Studies, Dr. Houghtby-Haddon has played a pivotal role in shaping the Center’s programs. Her expertise in leadership theory, ethics, culture change, and personal development, combined with her extensive experience leading organizations such as Immaculate Heart College Center and the Institute for Community Leadership in Los Angeles, positions her as the ideal leader to continue CEPL’s legacy of innovation and impact.
The university extends its heartfelt gratitude to Jim Robinson for his remarkable service and congratulates Dr. Houghtby-Haddon on her new role as CEPL embarks on its next chapter.
