The Walter Beach Award is given annually by NCAPSA to a political scientist who has made “a substantial contribution to strengthen the relationship between political science and public service.” Since 1977, the Beach Award has been given to remarkable political scientists who enhance our understanding of political life and bridge the gap between the worlds of learning and governing. The award is presented at NCAPSA’s Annual Business Meeting in October.
2024 Award
The recipient of the 2024 Walter Beach Award is Ryan T. Moore (American University).
About Walter Beach
Walter E. Beach was a co-founder, benefactor, and former Secretary and Treasurer of NCAPSA. Beach worked at the DC headquarters of the American Political Science Association from 1965 to 1980, serving in roles including Assistant Director of APSA, Editor of the journal PS and Director of the Congressional Fellowship Program. He was also heavily involved in organizing the Committees on the Status of Women, Blacks, and Chicanos in the Profession, and in developing APSA's international programs.
Past Recipients of the Walter Beach Award
Michael Brintnall – 2023
John Sides – 2022
Sarah Binder – 2021
Elizabeth Bennion and Richard Davis – 2020
Frances Lee – 2019
Kathleen Hicks – 2018
Hal Wolman – 2017
Judith Feder – 2016
Jeffrey Biggs – 2015
George Kundanis – 2014
Walter Oleszek – 2013
I.M. ‘Mac’ Destler – 2012
Louis Fisher – 2011
James A. Thurber – 2010
Richard P. Nathan – 2009
Lee Sigelman – 2008
Nolan E. Jones – 2007
Paul S. Herrnson – 2006
Ronald Walters – 2005
Patricia S. Florestano – 2004
Paul Wellstone – 2002
Lee Fritschler – 2001
Robert L. Gallucci – 2000
Thomas E. Mann – 1999
Norman J. Ornstein – 1998
David R. Obey – 1997
Elaine C. Kamarck – 1996
Stephen Horn – 1995
William A. Galston – 1994
Vincent J. Brown – 1993
David Price – 1992
James L. Sundquist – 1991
Jeane J. Kirkpatrick – 1990
Max M. Kampleman – 1989
Howard R. Penniman – 1988
Richard M. Scammon – 1987
Mark W. Cannon – 1986
Parris N. Glendening – 1985
Austin Ranney – 1984
Elmer B. Staats – 1983
Charles L. Clapp – 1982
Evron M. Kirkpatrick – 1981
Donna E. Shalala – 1980
Alan K. (Scotty) Campbell – 1979
Francis O. Wilcox – 1978 Ernest S. Griffith – 1977
NCAPSA will accept nominations for the 2025 award before the annual business meeting held at APSA offices where it will be announced.
Above: The American Political Science Association, the fiscal sponsor of NCAPSA.