Valerie Martinez-Ebers ('80, '83 M.P.A.), University Distinguished Research Professor of political science and director of the Latina/o and Mexican American Studies Program, was named the 2020 recipient of the Betty Moulds Lifetime Service Award by the Western Political Science Association. The award is given to an individual who has a long history of service and extraordinary contribution to the organization.

Martinez-Ebers, who began teaching at UNT in 2008, was honored for her inclusive leadership style. The group recognized her mentoring of newcomers to the organization, particularly women and people of color. Martinez-Eber's research focuses include race and ethnicity in American politics, especially Latino politics, and public policy surrounding education and immigration.