The Hobby School of Public Affairs Leadership Award will be granted to one former Hobby School intern and to one graduate of the Hobby School’s Certified Public Manager program each year. The recipients are determined by a committee of Hobby School representatives and advisory board members.  

The Hobby School of Public Affairs Leadership Award honors Hobby Fellows-Austin, Leland Fellows-Washington, Harris Fellows and Civic Houston Intern Alumni who:

• Are distinguished in their profession and poised to accomplish more
• Mentor others to help advance future leaders
• Serve as a model of excellence in civic engagement
• Committed to bettering the lives of others through public service

The Hobby School of Public Affairs Leadership Award honors its Certified Public Manager Program Alumni who:  

• Are distinguished in their profession and poised to accomplish more
• Demonstrate strong leadership skills within their organization
• Exemplify the Certified Public Manager Program’s professional standards including the use of best practices and management ethics
• Committed to bettering the lives of others through public service

Application Details

The 2025 application is forthcoming. Self-nominations are acceptable. 

2024 Leadership Award Recipients  Terry Lynch and Hugo Mojica   Certified Public Manager Terry Lynch is the police chief for the City of Wharton with an extensive career in policing and five years as a Wharton city councilmember. He was recently elected to serve as a Wharton County Junior College trustee.   Former Civic Houston Intern  Hugo Mojica works for the City of Houston as the chief of staff for Houston City Councilmember Twila Carter with previous professonal experience in municipal, nonprofit and private agencies.