Sean O’Keefe, a retiring University Professor and public servant, has shared reflections on his career marked by service in government, higher education, and the aerospace industry. Throughout his career, O’Keefe adhered to principles of stepping up when called upon to serve, being open to opportunities, and challenging oneself.
O’Keefe’s journey began at Loyola University of New Orleans as a political science student influenced by his parents’ example. His passion for public policy was encouraged by Professor Stan Makielski, who directed him to the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs for its modern approach to public management. “It was a leap of faith,” said O’Keefe about choosing Maxwell, “but it turned out to be a wise choice.”
His time at Maxwell taught him the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in leadership. “Every choice I made…the fundamentals were introduced to me at Syracuse University and the Maxwell School,” stated O’Keefe. His leadership skills were put to the test during critical events such as the Columbia shuttle disaster while he was NASA administrator and Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath as Chancellor of Louisiana State University.
Reflecting on leadership qualities, O’Keefe noted, “The best thing you can do in a leadership capacity is gather folks with different skills…coming up with a mutually agreeable solution.” His career included four presidential appointments: U.S. Secretary of the Navy, NASA Administrator, Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and CFO of the Department of Defense.
O’Keefe credited his career start to the Presidential Management Fellow program promoted by Anne Stewart at Maxwell Hall. Despite initial doubts about applying—“I don’t have a snowball’s chance in hell”—he was selected among 250 recipients in 1978. The fellowship accelerated his professional development through diverse roles including work with Senator J. Bennett Johnston and Senator Ted Stevens.
As an educator at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School, O’Keefe taught courses on various topics including public management and national security policy. He emphasized understanding stakeholder goals and obstacles in problem-solving while urging students to seek diverse solutions.
“The Maxwell School taught me everything I know about management and leadership,” remarked O’Keefe about his teaching experience. “It has been an honor and a privilege to teach here.”
