In fall 2024, the MPA program presented the Alumnus of the Year Award to Robert Carver, director of the NASA Agency Workforce Strategy and Transformation Office. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate extraordinary service and leadership in the public sector and in their communities. Reflecting on his career, Carver credits much of his success to the relationships he started building as a student at the BYU Marriott School of Business.
Speaking at a luncheon held in his honor, Carver thanked many of the people who have helped him become who he is today. “As I have continued to reflect on this award, I have realized this isn’t an individual achievement,” Carver said, “It’s about the relationships I have been blessed with and how individuals have helped me along the way.”
Carver, who earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations from BYU in 1990 and an MPA in 1992, recognized several BYU Marriott faculty members for their influence on him as a student. He praised Dale Wright, whose kindness and encouragement as the director of the MPA program left a strong impression. Carver also credited Michael Thompson and Larry Walters for teaching him writing, communication, and analytical skills that he now uses in his career.
Carver began working at NASA headquarters as a presidential management intern in 1992, fresh out of the MPA program. Prior to his current position as director of the Agency Workforce Strategy and Transformation Office in Washington, DC, Carver was the director of the Mission Support Resources Management Office, where he oversaw a $3.8 billion budget for NASA.
Outside of his leadership role at work, Carver has served as a school board member, coached youth soccer teams, and has served in many church callings.
Working in federal service for more than 32 years has provided Carver with leadership opportunities and allowed him to develop meaningful relationships with people such as his boss, Lisa Ziehmann, whom he recognizes as an advocate and mentor.
In receiving the award, Carver commended his mentors for their role in inspiring and preparing him for a meaningful career in public administration, and he admonished current faculty to do the same for their students. “Your excellence and generosity can make all the difference in [your students’] abilities to live the MPA vision, mission, and values throughout their careers,” Carver said.
“As we can see by simply turning on the news—we live in a world in dire need of leaders who will lift the world through Christlike leadership in public service,” Carver remarked. “It is my firm faith that as we look to Jesus Christ, our faith will give us the capacity to envision a better future, the confidence to make that future happen, and the courage to act in the face of challenges.”
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Written by Elizabeth Walker