Alumni

Ashley Westbrook Turton Scholarship 

Ashley Westbrook Turton

Women’s Leadership in Government

The Turton Scholarship provides annual tuition assistance for a female student enrolled in the Master of Public Administration Program (MPA), who has distinguished herself academically and aspires to enter or continue a successful career in local, state, or federal government.

The scholarship honors Ashley Westbrook Turton, a native of Greensboro and Cary, who passed away in 2011 at age 37. Turton graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Political Science in 1997 determined to make a difference on the national level. She entered into political work as an Assistant for NC Governor James B. Hunt, Jr. and Communications Director for NC Attorney General Michael Easley. In 2000 she was honored as one of the “Top Five Young Democrats” in North Carolina. Moving to Washington, DC, she served as Press Secretary, Communications Director, and  Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn) and for three successive years was featured in The Hill newspaper’s honor roll of “Top 35 staffers under 35.” At the time of her death Turton was Manager of Federal Affairs for Progress Energy Service Company.

While in Washington, Turton befriended and became an important mentor to many young women interested in government careers.  The Turton Scholarship celebrates her determination and pleasure in helping other women achieve success in the complex world of government and politics.

To further honor Turton’s desire to mentor young women toward successful careers, each Turton Scholar is teamed with an alumnae member of the MPA Alumni Association Board who serves as a mentor during the student’s time in the program.