I second this perspective. I don't want to leave my job but want to advance to a leadership role in my government organization.
For background, this was my second time applying to only part-time (and online) programs. I only applied to one of the programs last year. I tailored my application materials specific to the program the second time and chose potential advisors who were a better fit. Another motivation for me was teaching at the university level without being a full-time academic. Funding wasn't necessarily a high priority for me since I'm already in a successful career in government, but it sounds like there are still some opportunities available to teach or guest lecture in specific courses, per my advisor. I'll probably find out more information about those opportunities later this week.