The Peter E. Haas Public Service Award recognizes a UC Berkeley alum who has made significant and impactful contributions to the betterment of society within the United States through volunteering. It includes four major categories — community/social service, healthcare, the environment, and education — and especially acknowledges grassroots activities that illustrate the broad impact one individual can have in inspiring creative social change across communities.
On February 2, 2017, first-year pre-med student Manu was dismayed by a protest on the Berkeley campus that turned violent and disrupted an event with a controversial speaker. Manu, his friend Ross Irwin, and some fellow undergraduates were motivated to create a space where students could engage with each other respectfully. What began as BridgeBerkeley soon spread to dozens of colleges and became BridgeUSA.
Motivated by a desire to strengthen America by overcoming our divisions, Manu pivoted to study political science, earned a B.A. with distinction, and continued to lead and build BridgeUSA, which has grown into an inspirational youth-led movement with 125 chapters in 41 states. The organization has empowered more than 30,000 students in its effort to move past political polarization, honor diverse perspectives, and bridge differences using constructive conversation.
Reflecting his vision for a pluralistic democracy and strong country, Manu also hosts the weekly podcast “The Hopeful Majority,” advises political leaders across the spectrum, and serves on the boards of Braver Angels, Convergence, American Promise, and other civic organizations.
