Honoring a Legacy of Excellence, Equity, and Service in Public Administration Education

The International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) and the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA) deeply mourn the passing of Dr. Blue Wooldridge, a revered scholar, educator, and lifelong advocate of diversity, equity, and excellence in public administration.

With an academic career spanning more than five decades, Dr. Wooldridge served as Distinguished Career Professor and Professor Emeritus at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where he shaped generations of public servants and scholars. He was also a dedicated leader within IASIA, notably as Project Director of Working Group I on Education and Training, a flagship initiative regarded as the “heart” of the Association. Through this role, he helped raise global standards for the training of public administrators and advanced the mission of building high-performing schools and institutes of public administration worldwide.

In 2019, Dr. Wooldridge concluded his sixth consecutive three-year term on the IASIA Board of Management, marking nearly two decades of dedicated leadership and service to the organization. He also served as Project Director of IASIA Working Group I and as Regional Vice President for North America. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the organization, he received the Donald C. Stone Award in 2020.

Dr. Wooldridge also played a pivotal role in ICAPA, serving as Acting Chair of the Accreditation Committee during a critical leadership transition and as a member of the ICAPA Board of Management. His involvement with ICAPA dates back to its inception, when he participated in the IASIA/UNDESA Taskforce that established the original Standards of Excellence.

Beyond IASIA, Dr. Wooldridge’s professional affiliations included NAPA, ASPA, and NASPAA. His legacy includes over 150 scholarly works, and his passion for social equity and ethical governance was evident in every facet of his work, from research and teaching to mentoring and institutional leadership.

The IIAS and IASIA communities extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Wooldridge’s family, colleagues, and students. His wisdom, generosity, and unwavering commitment to fairness and excellence in public service will continue to inspire us all.