Owen Stone

Why did you choose Wagner for graduate school?

I had a lot of experience in one facet of my career, but I was looking for a program that would help build my skill sets, establish me as a well-rounded professional, and differentiate me from other job candidates. I chose Wagner because it is one of the best MPA programs in the nation, and it is located right in the heart of New York City. 

If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere... but why would you want to? New York is tough, but it has more opportunities - and more diverse opportunities - than anywhere in the country. You can be in New York and work with City, State, Federal and International governments; we have world-class health and research institutions, as well as the thriving finance, culture, and social sectors. 

How did your Wagner experience prepare you professionally for what you are doing today?

I work in the Public Sector Innovation field, which, among other things, requires an understanding of how cities work, how policies are formed and implemented, and how to leverage collective impact models. My public sector finance courses underpinned my policy courses, which, when paired with my prior work experience, allowed me to be a credible asset for nearly 20 cities in the US and Israel that are pushing the boundaries of how municipal governments are attacking our societies' most pressing problems. 

What are the advantages of the Wagner alumni network?

Wagner's alumni network can be found in every sector of the city and beyond. They are a great critical friend and resource for those trying to build their professional careers in the government, social, and public finance sectors.