Wazzu/Distinguished Public Service

Distinguished Public Service

Distinguished Public Service on Wazzu: a running collection of one story we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on distinguished public service in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around distinguished public service, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.

The Seattle Times The Seattle Times

Former Vice President Mike Pence to visit Spokane to receive WSU award

## Former Vice President Mike Pence to Receive WSU’s Foley Award Washington State University will honor former Vice President Mike Pence with the 2026 Thomas S. Foley Award for Distinguished Public Service. The announcement, made Thursday, recognizes Pence’s career dedicated to public service and aligns with the award’s focus on individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment to the common good. The Foley Award, a prestigious WSU distinction, is named after the late Congressman Thomas S. Foley, a celebrated figure in Washington state politics. The selection committee cited Pence’s extensive experience in government, from his time as Governor of Indiana to his role as Vice President under President Donald Trump, as key factors in their decision. While the award acknowledges his contributions, WSU emphasizes its commitment to fostering open dialogue and diverse perspectives on campus. Events surrounding the presentation are still being finalized, and further details regarding the date and location will be released soon. This news comes as WSU researchers are actively engaged in addressing critical public health challenges, as highlighted by their recent work during the Cyclosporiasis outbreak. The university’s dedication extends beyond political recognition, demonstrating a commitment to practical solutions and impactful research that benefits communities both locally and nationally.