Question 1

As noted in the readings, the policy cycle consists of eight stages: agenda setting, problem definition, alternative selection, authoritative decision, policy design, program implementation, program evaluation, and termination or change. In a two- to three-paragraph posting, select one of these eight stages and identify why this stage is important in the policy cycle.

Question 2

Please read the Forbes article (and watch the embedded video) entitled Lessons In Courage From Africa's First Female President. (http://www.forbes.com/sites/moiraforbes/2013/11/21/this-is-what-courage-looks-like-lessons-in-strength-from-liberias-ellen-johnson-sirleaf/#638a61003ca2)This article is a biographical piece on a fellow MPA degree holder, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, the first female President of Liberia, and the continents first female head of state. Based on the content presented in the article:

• Describe what experiences Johnson-Sirleaf ascribes her leadership skills to. Are these skills that all leaders must have?
• Johnson-Sirleaf is often referred to as the Iron Lady. What are the personality traits that have earned her this moniker and describe generally the positive and negative implications for public administrators that demonstrate these particular personality traits?