Tammy Key, interim director of TWU’s Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy (CWPP), has been named a recipient of a Mentor Award from the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN). The awards, presented to women leaders who have a proven commitment to training the next generation of women public policy leaders, will be presented during a virtual ceremony Tuesday, March 16.

PLEN executive director Sarah Bruno noted that Key was nominated by a record six students. “Each nominator commented that Tammy had been pivotal in helping her become civically engaged and access leadership opportunities both on and off campus, and that she brings an unmatched level of commitment to her work,” Bruno noted.

Each year, PLEN alumnae nominate and the community chooses winners in four categories — Members of Congress, Contributions to the PLEN Community, Outstanding Alumna, and Lifetime Achievement. Key received the Contributions to the PLEN Community award.

“Throughout my career, many people went out of their way to support my dreams, and I have always sought to pay that generosity forward,” Key said. “I believe this is a critical time for women to step forward as leaders and decision makers in every career field. In my current position, I have the chance to provide women the opportunity to cultivate their talents and encourage their voices. It has been a true privilege to mentor and lift up incredibly bright, passionate women who will have a significant impact on the future.”