NASCA Press Release: Lauren Kilmer Announced as 2026 20 Under 40 Award Winner

For Immediate Release
May 14, 2026

Contact: Elizabeth Whitehouse, Executive Director, executivedirector@nasca.org

NASCA Press Release: Lauren Kilmer Announced as 2026 20 Under 40 Award Winner

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of State Chief Administrators is proud to announce Lauren Kilmer, Vice President for Public Service Leadership at the Partnership for Public Service, as a 2026 NASCA 20 Under 40 Award recipient.

The NASCA 20 Under 40 Award recognizes 20 exceptional young leaders from across the country who are making significant contributions to state government. Our 2026 honorees represent the very best of public service – exemplifying innovation, collaboration, and a dedication to improving the lives of those they serve every single day.

As Vice President for Public Service Leadership, Kilmer leads efforts to develop and strengthen leaders across all levels of government. She is dedicated to equipping public servants with the skills and tools necessary to succeed and effectively serve the American people.

One of Kilmer’s most notable accomplishments is her work advancing leadership development initiatives for state executives, including spearheading the expansion of the Partnership for Public Service’s AI Government Leadership Program to train hundreds of leaders across more than 40 states in less than one year. She has also advised senior leadership across multiple states as they navigate rapidly-changing government landscapes, providing guidance and support to respond to emerging challenges. She does this work in close collaboration with her terrific Public Service Leadership Institute team.

Upon nominating Kilmer, the Executive Team at the Partnership for Public Service highlighted Kilmer’s passion for public service and helping leaders across the country.

“In her role, Lauren is dedicated to equipping leaders at all levels across government to fully realize their potential and hone their skills to best serve the American people…Lauren is passionate about public service and bringing out the absolute best in every leader and team that she supports.”

Kilmer’s commitment to developing leadership and strengthening the public sector reflects the impact recognized by the NASCA 20 Under 40 Award. NASCA celebrates her selection as a 20 Under 40 recipient, and we look forward to her continued work advancing excellence in state government operations.

Founded in 1976, NASCA is the nation’s only nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving chief administrative officers or CAOs. NASCA provides a forum for state chief administrative officers to exchange information and learn new ideas from each other and private sector partners. NASCA engages states in transforming government operations through shared knowledge, operational excellence, and thought leadership.

For more information on NASCA, please visit NASCA.org.