SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 26, 2025—Santa Clara University has named Davina Hurt as the director of the Government Ethics Program at the university’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics. Hurt will lead efforts to promote integrity, accountability, and ethical governance in public institutions, and has responsibility for the vision, strategy, fundraising, and leadership of the program.
Hurt has served as mayor, vice-mayor, councilmember, and commissioner for the town of Belmont, drawing on her experience as an attorney and nonprofit board member. She was appointed to California state boards by Governor Gavin Newsom and other legislative leaders, and has spoken at global forums including the U.N. Climate Conferences in Scotland and Egypt, the Korean Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, and the U.S. Embassy in London.
"Davina is a remarkable person who, throughout her career, has been dedicated to public service and government, always with an eye toward doing the right thing,” said Don Heider, executive director, Markkula Center for Applied Ethics. “She has a strong moral compass, is dedicated to ethics, and will be a great addition to the center."
"Santa Clara University shaped my understanding of service and integrity early on as a Santa Clara Law graduate, so it’s an honor to return and lead this work,” said Hurt. “Ethical leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about accountability, transparency, and putting the public first. In a time of deep polarization and public skepticism, it’s more important than ever to support institutions and leaders who are willing to confront hard truths, uphold integrity, and rebuild public trust."
Hurt is available to provide commentary to members of the media on ethical dilemmas and issues in the sphere of local, state, and national government.
Media Contact
Joel Dibble | Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University | 408-554-5116 | jdibble@scu.edu | https://www.scu.edu/ethics/