Hughes Center Seeking Civility in Government

The William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at the is looking for a civilized politician.

The center announced on Thursday it is taking nominations for its inaugural William J. Hughes Civility in Government and Politics Award, which will recognize an appointed or elected official who conducts the public's business with civility and respect for others.

The center is accepting nominations from the public, and will also consult with a blue ribbon nomination committee and leaders in government and academia.

The winner will receive the award at a dinner reception at the college's new campus center. Net proceeds will be applied to the development of scholarships for deserving students enrolled in the college's Washington internship program.

Hughes Center Executive Director Sharon Schulman will be a member of the committee, as will the center's namesake William J. Hughes, a former U.S. ambassador to Panama and longtime Congressional representative; former Congressional representative James Saxton; Verizon representative Jennifer Young; Deputy Director of the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission Joe Donohue; and Hughes Center Steering Committee Representative Evelyn Ingargiola.

 “The current public commentary bemoans the rise of extreme partisanship and lack of respect for opposing points of view. Attention getting sound bites have become substitutes for real discussions about policy and this gets in the way of good government,” Hughes said. “We must join the discussion by offering positive examples of individuals who vigorously pursue their public goals, but do so without rancor.”

The winner will be judged by the following criteria: political discourse based on fact; respecting other's opinions without regard to political association; the official and all representatives of that official show truthfulness through candor, honesty and forthrightness when communicating with the public; inclusiveness in decision-making and policy development; respectful behavior and doesn't an absence of disruptive or abusive behavior; acts with decency, dignity and courtesy; conflict resolution in a rational, peaceful and efficient manner; desire for excellence; and the recognition that cross-party and cross-ideological cooperation is imperative.

A submission form can be downloaded at stockton.edu/hughescenter. All materials, including the completed nomination form and testimonial letters, must be submitted to the Hughes Center before June 15 at 5 p.m.