The Martha H. Mauzy Award for the Advancement of Democratic Governance

Marty MauzyThe competition for the 2023 Martha H. Mauzy Award for the Advancement of Democratic Governance is now closed. Please check back in spring 2024. 

Marty Mauzy was Executive Director of the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation from 2004 to 2016, during which time her leadership, experience, and commitment contributed to 12 years of inspiring growth. Marty’s storied and impressive career at Harvard University spanned 35 years.

The Martha H. Mauzy Award for the Advancement of Democratic Governance began in 2017 in recognition of Marty’s legacy of leadership and innovation at the Ash Center, her fierce protection of the vision of the Center's founding donor Roy and Lila Ash to ‘protect the fragile institution of democracy,’ and her commitment to unique learning opportunities for students.

This award is presented to a graduating student at Harvard Kennedy School who demonstrates a unique commitment, through scholarship and practice, to strengthening democracy in the United States and beyond, whether through electoral reform, community engagement, participation, Indigenous governance, and justice and antiracism.

Any student enrolled in an HKS degree program or joint degree who is graduating in Spring 2023 is eligible for this award. We encourage faculty, fellows, and staff to submit a nomination and students may apply on their own behalf or nominate a meritorious classmate. The award, which will be presented at a ceremony hosted by the Ash Center, includes both a monetary award and a certificate.

Meet the previous winners of the Martha H. Mauzy Award for the Advancement of Democratic Governance