Edward E. Willey Graduate Award for Excellence

This honors the late state Senator and School of Pharmacy alumnus, Edward E. Willey. The award is made to graduate students who demonstrate strong academic achievement and potential, centrality of the proposed field of study, and specialization in the public affairs area as demonstrated through voluntary activity in relevant civic, community, or campus organizations. Although not required, residents of Virginia who seem likely to pursue public careers in the state are given preference.

• Master of Public Administration, CJ, or MURP students
• Students with a demonstrated interest in public careers in Virginia preferred
• Must be enrolled full-time in the Fall semester at the time of awarding
• Voluntary activity in civic, campus, or community organizations preferred
• Determined to be outstanding in character, as judged by faculty and classmates; leadership ability, as demonstrated by participation in and leadership of student organizations; and academic performance, as shown by the attainment of a minimum 3.75 GPA.
• A letter of recommendation and a CV/resume are required

Three graduate student awards are available on a rotating basis. In even years, awards are available to graduate students in public policy, recreation, and rehabilitation counseling. In odd years, awards are available to Wilder School graduate students in MPA, CJ, or MURP programs.

*This opportunity will be awarded in Fall 2026.*