Hatton W. Sumners Foundation

Who was Hatton W. Sumners?

From 1912 to 1947, Mr. Sumners represented Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives where he became Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. Mr. Sumners saw a well informed and perceptive citizenry as essential to preserving democracy, and strong state and local governments as essential to balance the growing influence of the national government. In 1949 he established the Hatton W. Sumners Foundation for the study and teaching of the science of self-government and, following his death in 1962, left most of his estate to the Foundation to carry forward his vision. The MPA program at the University of the North Texas is pleased to participate with the Foundation in promoting Mr. Sumners’ belief in the value of effective leadership to preserving democracy and the urgency of preparing public servants committed to that goal.