ABQ Times

Mala Htun, a distinguished professor of political science at The University of New Mexico (UNM), passed away on Friday after battling cancer. She was 55 years old.

Funeral services for Htun are scheduled for Wednesday, January 29, at Congregation Albert in Albuquerque. Her family has requested that no flowers be sent and will host private Shiva services.

Htun was born in Hawaii and moved to Albuquerque in 1982 when her mother joined UNM as a professor. She earned her Ph.D. from Harvard University and an A.B. from Stanford University. From 2000 to 2011, she served as an assistant and associate professor at the New School for Social Research.

Her academic work focused on comparative politics, women's rights, social inequalities, and promoting inclusive environments in STEM fields. Htun authored three books; her most recent publication, "The Logics of Gender Justice: State Action on Women's Rights around the World," co-authored with Laurel Weldon, received the International Studies Association’s Best Book Award in Human Rights Section in 2019.

In recognition of her achievements, Htun was named Distinguished Professor of Political Science at UNM in 2024—a title awarded to faculty who have made significant contributions to their field. That same year, she was elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences.

Throughout her career, Htun held leadership roles such as vice president of the American Political Science Association and chair of its Committee on the Status of Women in the Profession. She also co-chaired the Presidential Task Force on Women's Advancement and was an Andrew Carnegie Fellow in 2015.

Htun collaborated with Christos Christodoulou to enhance diversity within UNM's School of Engineering by attracting women and under-represented groups. "Mala spearheaded the launch of the first-ever Climate and Inclusion Survey," said Christodoulou about her efforts to create a supportive environment for all students and staff.

UNM Political Science Professor Jessica Feezell described Htun as "one of the world’s top scholars of gender and representation" while highlighting her approachable nature.

Htun is survived by her husband Doug Turner; their children Alexander Turner, Livia Turner, Elinor Turner; and parents Dr. Helen Muller and Dr. Ko Moe Htun.

In memory of Htun's legacy, an academic endowment will be established by UNM Foundation where donations can be made to support future initiatives honoring her contributions.