Student Prize for Civility in Public Life
The Dr. James H. Mullen, Jr. Student Prize for Civility in Public Life is awarded annually to exemplary student leaders who have demonstrated a strong passion for, and deep understanding of, civility on the Allegheny College campus and in community work. Prize recipients exhibit a depth and breadth of activities, roles, responsibilities, and years of involvement that have a significant impact on civility and respect on the campus and beyond. Established in 2017, the prize was named in 2019 in honor of retiring Allegheny College President James H. Mullen, Jr. in recognition of his commitment to civility on campus, locally, regionally, and nationally. Naming the prize was made possible by a generous gift from Dag and Julie Grosjean Skattum (’84/’85).
To honor public officials in Pennsylvania from both sides of the political spectrum who have conducted themselves with noteworthy civility.
To honor public officials in Pennsylvania from both sides of the political spectrum who have conducted themselves with noteworthy civility.
2025 Student Prize
Zula Stenger ’25
Recipient of the Dr. James H. Mullen, Jr. Student Prize for Civility in Public Life
A Business major with minors in Political Science and Studio Art, Zula began her Allegheny journey with a vow in her application: to make an impact.
She fulfilled that promise through leadership on and off campus, serving as President of both the Women in Business and Economics Club and College Democrats, and holding fellowships with the Bruce R. Thompson Center for Business and Economics and the Center for Political Participation.
She interned with the Mayor of Meadville, volunteered in local politics, and worked to strengthen civic life throughout the community. In her final year, she founded the Democracy Coalition, a nonpartisan group dedicated to fostering civic respect in a divided political climate.
Now pursuing a career in political organizing, Zula is focused on empowering rural progressives and building a more inclusive democracy from the ground up.
Past Years Student Prizes
2024
- Sami Mirza ’24
- Blake Neiderlander ’24
2023
- Raegen Myers ’23
2022
- Shula Bronner ’22
- Dakchyata Thapa ’22
