From 2011 to 2026, the Master of Public Administration program recognized local elected officials, public servants and practitioners who helped shape public service in the Houston area through its annual awards luncheon. Proceeds from the event supported student scholarships, contributing to the academic experiences of graduate candidates at the Hobby School.

2026 Highlights

The Master of Public Administration program recognized five public officials who exemplify the highest standards of public service at the 2026 Public Officials of the Year Awards on March 27 at the Hilton University of Houston. 

The honorees were celebrated for serving their communities through innovative, ethical leadership. A unifying theme across the program was a commitment to addressing complex challenges through collaborative, solutions-oriented approaches that extend beyond departmental and jurisdictional boundaries. 

Honorees

The 2026 award recipients are Corby Alexander, city manager of the City of La Porte; Trey Duhon, judge of Waller County; Trent Epperson, city manager of the City of Pearland; and Juli Mathew, presiding judge of Fort Bend County Court at Law No. 3. Houston City Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum was honored with the Pioneer Award for her longstanding commitment to public service and consistent work advancing the public good. Her chief of staff, Perdita Chavis, accepted the award on her behalf. 

Kathleen P. Rubinstein Best Paper Awards

Master of Public Administration candidates Christopher Burbridge and Sophia Ilahi were celebrated for their standout papers and ability to demonstrate a strong understanding of their coursework's applicability to the real world. Kathleen P. Rubinstein, who sponsors the awards, is an MPA alumna and a former long-time MPA instructor.