The Bush School of Government and Public Service Outstanding Alumni Award was presented to Esther Larson, Class of 2006.
Larson, who has an impressive record of public service, graduated from the Bush School of Government and Public Service with a Master of Public Service and Administration in 2006.
Dean Mark A. Welsh III began his remarks by saying this award was established to honor those Bush School alumni who embody Aggie values after graduation and those who are dedicated to improving the well-being of others.
Larson, who was nominated by her sister and fellow Bush School alumna, Marcia Peiffer, embodies Aggie values as she’s continued her work after the Bush School in New York City. While introducing her sister, Marcia noted that it is her sister’s values that set her apart.
“Esther has been a force for good,” said her sister.
Public Service is a Noble Calling
During Larson’s remarks, she reminisced about her time at the Bush School, thanking the faculty who prepared and equipped her for work in the nonprofit world. She also recalled the moment she knew she wanted to dedicate her life to public service. Just inside the door of the Bush School, she told the audience, there’s a bust of President George H. W. Bush with a quote that reads, “Public service is a noble calling, and we need men and women of character to believe that they can make a difference in their communities, in their states, and in their country.” The moment she saw those words, Larson’s decision to dedicate her life to public service was confirmed.
A Career in Public Service
Currently, Esther is the director of Affiliate Development at Hope for New York and has been an active member of the nonprofit community in New York City both professionally and personally since graduating. As an alumna of the Bush School, Esther has spoken to classes, helped with recruiting in New York, and assisted numerous students pursuing careers in the nonprofit sector.
