Les Aspin Democracy Award

The Les Aspin Democracy Award recognizes the accomplishments of its recipient and honors its namesake, Les Aspin, and the manner in which he approached policy questions. It's presented to an individual whose actions have epitomized the mission of the Les Aspin Center for Government by demonstrating a commitment to democratic values and rigorous, analytical problem-solving and exemplifiying lives of public service. Just as the Les Aspin Center for Government seeks to act as a bridge between sectors of the American political system, the Les Aspin Democracy Award symbolizes the benefits of building relationships to foster and promote democratic ideals.

Former recipients include:

Aspin awards

• The Les Aspin Democracy Award
• The Les Aspin Distinguished Public Service Award
• The Founders Award

• Marquette's program in Washington, now the Les Aspin Center, was a substantial part of my decision to engage in politics for the betterment of society.
  • Honorable Pedro Colón
    First Hispanic elected to Wisconsin state legislature
    Milwaukee County circuit court judge
• Marquette's Washington program provided me with a solid academic understanding of Capitol Hill, in addition to the exposure of daily life and work here.
  • Tim Yehl
    Former chief of staff
    U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (N.J.)
• Interning at the Les Aspin Center in Washington played a big role in advancing my career on Capitol Hill.
  • Steve Radke
    Vice president of government relations
    Northwestern Mutual
• My internship in the mayor's office has been an amazing experience. I have learned so much about how city government works.
  • Sheena Adams
    Kleczka Internship: Milwaukee mayor's office
    Major: Marketing

Quick fact:

• 2,200 students have graduated from Les Aspin Center programs.
• More than 50 alumni work as professional staff members in the U.S. Congress.
• We've trained more than 400 African leaders on democracy.
• Students intern at nearly 100 congressional offices, the White House, the FDA, the Department of Defense and more.
• Students live only four blocks from the U.S. Capitol.
• We welcome students majoring in biomedical science, business, communication, engineering, nursing and political science.
• We've been taking students to Africa for nearly 20 years.
• Our biomedical engineering students have interned at the FDA for 15 years.