John Lewis Public Administration Program wins Tulane EDI Award

The John Lewis Public Administration Program was recognized with the 2024 Pacesetter Award, an honor bestowed by Tulane University’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).  

The award was presented Friday, Jan. 19, during the university’s inaugural EDI Award Ceremony held at Messina’s in the Lakefront Airport Terminal.

“This award recognizes an academic department that collectively has woven EDI into the fabric of their unit via policies and practices, professional development opportunities and engagement, programming, and new initiatives,” said Provost Robin Forman, before presenting the award.

"Our commitment lies in the understanding that achieving this involves us all and it is surely a benefit to us all."

Halima Leak Francis, director of the John Lewis Public Administration Program

In addition to its academic programming, the recent development of the John Lewis Public Administration Program Applied Research Center was touted for creating a pipeline for civic leadership talent and an opportunity to bolster student and faculty engagement with community organizations through research that aligns with existing capstones, internships, residencies, and other program learning activities.

“This is an incredibly special honor,” said Halima Leak Francis, director of the John Lewis Public Administration Program. Leak Francis accepted the evening’s award on behalf of the program alongside Professor of Practice Tihara Sommers and Program Manager Ryan Albright. Associate Director, Brian McNamara, was unable to attend.

“At the heart of this work is an unwavering dedication to building communities where equitable and inclusive policies, practices, systems, structures, and opportunities are the norm rather than the exception – an expectation by which our work is measured,” said Leak Francis. “Our commitment lies in the understanding that achieving this involves us all and it is surely a benefit to us all.”

Visit the John Lewis Public Administration Program and Applied Research Center online to learn more.