Honoring Leadership in Public Service

New award to honor the late Governor Mel Carnahan

February 14th, 2011

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri announced a new award Friday to honor those who are committed to public service. The award is named for former Missouri governor Mel Carnahan, who was elected posthumously to the U.S. Senate in 2000.

“Governor Carnahan exemplified the best of public service and this award will honor his memory and legacy of public service,” said Barton Wechsler, the director of the Truman School of Public Affairs.  “The award will be given annually to a Missourian who has made significant contributions through public service, both paid and volunteer in the government, education, nonprofit, and legal sectors.”

Mel Carnahan Public Service Award recipients will be chosen by a committee of Missouri residents involved in public service. A graduate fellowship also will be awarded to one or more MU students who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service. The fellowship recipient must be a student enrolled in the Masters of Public Affairs program in the Truman School. Fellows will receive a $1,000 stipend and a tuition waiver for continued study at MU.

Candidates may be nominated by students, faculty, individuals or organizations. Nominees are considered based on their commitment and contributions to public service. Fellows are chosen by a committee of Truman School faculty and students.  The first Carnahan Public Service Award will be made in the Spring of 2011. The award committee will accept nominations through the end of March.