Nikolai DiPippa

A cornerstone of the Clinton School of Public Service since its inception, Nikolai DiPippa serves as Chief of Staff and Strategy. He works as a strategic advisor and counselor by supporting the Dean in their role and represents the Dean in internal and external meetings with staff, institutional partners, stakeholders, and community leaders. His tenure with the Clinton School dates back to 2005, giving him a unique and comprehensive perspective on its mission of public service. 

Previously, he served as the Director of Public Programs and Strategic Partnerships for the Clinton School. Under his leadership, over 244,000 people attended more than 1,400 programs that included a global roster of leading academics, heads of state, and Pulitzer Prize winners. He was also the host and producer of over 200 NPR radio shows and podcasts, “Clinton School Presents.” 

DiPippa has also been a leader of academic innovation at the school, notably overseeing the launch of the Executive Master of Public Service, the institution’s first online degree program. His work in bridging the gap between academia and the community earned him a Presidential Award of Excellence from the Arkansas Bar Association for his contributions to the inaugural Public Service Academy.

A native of Little Rock and a graduate of Catholic High School, DiPippa is deeply committed to the cultural and civic life of his hometown. He is a founding board member of the Arkansas Italian Food & Culture Festival and has served on many volunteer committees including the Arkansas Literary Festival, the Hendrix College Alumni Association Board of Governors, and Riverfest. In 2018, he was recognized by Arkansas Business as a member of the 40 Under 40 Class.

Before joining the Clinton School, DiPippa graduated from Hendrix College with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in psychology. He played soccer for Hendrix College for four years and is now a youth soccer coach.