Four political science graduate students receive scholarships

By AnnFriou
University News Service
September 9, 2011

Four graduate students in the Texas State University-San Marcos Master of Public Administration degree program have received prestigious scholarships from the Department of Political Science.

Wei Cui of Beijing, China, has received a $500 Balanoff Scholarship. Cui, who obtained a bachelor’s degree in English from Beijing University of Foreign Studies, is concentrating on international relations in her MPA program. After graduation, she hopes to work in international affairs in government or the public sector.

Denise Dusek of San Marcos has received a $1,000 Hobby Family Scholarship. Dusek, who obtained a bachelor’s degree in public administration with a minor in political science from Texas State, is concentrating on public administration in her MPA program. After graduation, she hopes to pursue public service in state or federal government.

Maureen Germaine of Farmington Hills, Mich., has received a $1,000 Hobby Family Scholarship. Germaine, who obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in international relations from Grand Valley State University, Mich., is concentrating on social policy in her MPA program. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a doctoral degree in political science.

Steve Umeh of Houston has a received a $1,000 Hobby Family Scholarship. Umeh, who received a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in health from the University of Houston, is concentrating on public finance in his MPA program. After graduation, he hopes to pursue a doctorate in political science and to work for a non-profit organization.

The Balanoff Scholarship, first awarded in 2010, is named in honor of Howard Balanoff, professor of political science and director of Texas State’s William P. Hobby Center for Public Service. The Hobby Family Scholarships, awarded for the first time in fall 2011, honor the family of former Texas Lt. Gov. William P. Hobby. Both scholarships are awarded to students who have completed 12 hours toward the MPA degree and who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.