The Humphrey School of Public Affairs will hold its 21st Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the McNamara Alumni Center.
Tickets are required for admission. Visit the Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards webpage for event details and sponsorship information.
The awards honor individuals and organizations who have contributed to the common good through leadership and service.
The 21st Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Award recipients are:
Melanie Benjamin, A leading voice for tribal sovereignty as Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe for more than 20 years. A visionary leader, she advanced tribal economic success, education, and Ojibwe language preservation.
Joan Growe, A trailblazer for civic engagement during her 24 years as Minnesota Secretary of State. She ensured elections were fair, transparent, and accessible to all voters, and has left an enduring legacy in Minnesota and beyond.
Dave Kleis, Former mayor of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for demonstrating transformative local leadership by fostering community engagement, regional economic development, and inclusive public service throughout his 20-year tenure in office.
Denis McDonough, Former White House Chief of Staff, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and Minnesota native, who has championed effective governance and a commitment to excellence while serving at the highest levels of government.
The recipients will be honored at a gala event on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the McNamara Alumni Center in Minneapolis. Proceeds support the Humphrey Public Leaders Fellowship fund.
Since its inception in 2003, the Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards have recognized 84 recipients and raised more than $2 million for student scholarships.
The general reception begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and the program at 6:30 p.m. Event will conclude by 8:30 p.m. CDT. Visit the Hubert H. Humphrey Public Leadership Awards webpage for more information.
This event will include live captions. To request an ASL interpreter or other accessibility accommodations, please email [email protected] by August 28, 2025.