Katherine Martin, a student in the master of science in social work program, has been awarded the 2016 Kenneth H. Ashworth Fellowship. Martin was the only student selected from across the state of Texas for the 2016 award.
“I have been consistently impressed with Katie’s academic and internship performance, and her determination of becoming the most effective client advocate she can be,” said Cossy Hough, clinical assistant professor at the School of Social Work.
“I’m very proud that Katie was chosen as the only Ashworth Fellowship recipient this year,” said Jane Kretzschmar, assistant dean for the master’s program.
“I am beyond grateful and humbled to be the recipient of this fellowship,” Martin said. “With this opportunity, I will continue my graduate education in social work and public affairs to better prepare myself for a career in public service in Texas. Ultimately, I hope to give back to my state by being an advocate for children in underrepresented communities.”
Martin is pursuing a dual degree with the LBJ School of Public Affairs, and is a graduate assistant at UT Austin’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Services. She has already gained public service experience through her work as legislative aid for the Texas representative Joe Moody, and two years of service with AmeriCorps in Texas. She is recipient of the 2014 Governor’s Volunteer Award-AmericCorps “Make a Difference.”
The Ashworth fellowship was established in 1997 by members of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to honor Dr. Kenneth H. Ashworth for his services as commissioner. The purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance to Texas students pursuing careers in public service. Deans and other administrators of graduate programs in various disciplines, including criminal justice, public affairs, public health, and social work, are invited to nominate students. A maximum of two students are selected each year.