Remembering a Visionary: The Legacy of UNM’s Brilliant Political Science Professor

On January 26, Mala Htun, a respected professor and author, passed away after a brave battle with cancer. She was 55 years old.

Htun had a profound impact on her students at the University of New Mexico, where she taught for many years. “She taught us how to think critically and conduct research,” said Melanie Sonntag, a former student. Htun was known for her engaging classes that focused on women’s rights and social issues.

Born in Honolulu, Htun moved to California and then to Albuquerque in 1982. Her mother became a professor at UNM, paving the way for Htun’s academic career. She graduated from Stanford University with a degree in international relations and later earned a PhD in political science from Harvard.

Mark Peceny, a political science professor at UNM, remembered Htun as a gifted thinker even in her undergraduate days at Stanford. He remarked, “She carried that brilliance throughout her entire career.” After teaching at the New School for Social Research from 2000 to 2011, she returned to UNM, where she became a distinguished professor and a leading scholar on gender and representation.

Outside of her teaching, Htun authored three significant books. One notable work, “The Logics of Gender Justice,” co-authored with Laurel Weldon, won the Best Book Award from the International Studies Association in 2019. She also spoke at various conferences and was involved in initiatives like the Presidential Task Force on Women’s Advancement.

“She was incredibly down to earth, yet highly intelligent,” shared Jessica Feezell, another UNM professor. Htun’s passion for education extended beyond the classroom—her husband, Doug Turner, emphasized her commitment to her students and the university. Even when offered more prestigious positions at top universities, Htun chose to stay at UNM out of loyalty and dedication.

Htun also loved the outdoors, particularly skiing at Taos Ski Valley. According to Turner, she had a deep connection to Taos and cherished exploring nature.

She is survived by her husband Doug and their three children: Alexander, Livia, and Elinor. In her memory, the family is establishing an academic endowment through the UNM Foundation. Doug mentioned Htun’s desire to bring in diverse thinkers to challenge conventional ideas, a testament to her commitment to education and engagement.

Funeral services for Htun are set for Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Congregation Albert. The family requests no flowers, but condolences can be sent to their home.

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Stanford University, Mala Htun, Doug Turner, the University of New Mexico, Alexander Turner, UNM Foundation, political science, Melanie Sonntag