Angela Pool-Funai

Angela Pool-Funai serves as Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Administration and Director of Public Administration at Southern Utah University within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. With 15 years of prior experience in nonprofit organizations and higher education administration, she transitioned to academia and has been at SUU for four years as of 2018, teaching core courses in public administration and political science.

• Bachelor's in Journalism and Economics, Stephen F. Austin State University
• Master's in Public Policy and Administration, Baylor University
• Doctorate in Public Administration, Valdosta State University

Her research focuses on public administration ethics, fiscal policy, identity politics, and civil rights, emphasizing experiential learning where students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world governance challenges. She advocates for critical thinking and encourages students to form independent conclusions while remaining open to diverse perspectives.

Her scholarly output centers on ethical frameworks in public finance, exemplified by her 2018 book Ethics in Fiscal Administration: An Introduction, which addresses integrity in government financial management and decision-making processes.

• Two-time Professor of the Year nominee
• Recipient of Influencer Award for student leadership impact

As Director of Public Administration, she oversees experiential programs including internships, professional projects, and theses, guiding students through complex policy analysis while fostering ethical leadership development in public service careers.