The Carl Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy has named Sara Zdeb, visiting assistant professor of practice, as the winner of its 2026 Award for Excellence in Oversight Research for her paper, “Cooperative Oversight and the Separation of Powers.”

The selection committee found that Zdeb’s paper makes an important contribution to oversight scholarship by “advancing a creative and constructive framework for strengthening congressional oversight of the executive branch.” The committee, which is comprised of oversight experts as well as legal and political science scholars, highlighted the paper’s originality, its grounding in legal doctrine and historical practice, and the practical relevance to ongoing debates on information access and executive accountability.

“The Levin Center is honored to bestow its 2026 award on an innovative and thought-provoking paper that offers a fresh perspective on how Congress can strengthen its oversight capacity,” said Jim Townsend, director of the Levin Center. “Professor Zdeb challenges the conventional assumption that Congress can improve its position in oversight disputes only through confrontation with the executive branch. Instead, her research demonstrates how oversight conducted during periods of cooperation can help shape future information-sharing practices, strengthen Congress’s institutional position, and reinforce the constitutional system of checks and balances.”

Zdeb’s paper is particularly timely, given the potential change in control of the chambers of Congress following this year’s midterm elections.

Zdeb says that as someone who has benefitted immeasurably from the Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy’s resources over the years, she is honored to receive their Award for Excellence in Oversight Research: “Congressional oversight has always been an essential separation of powers check, but it is especially vital when executive power is expanding. I’m grateful to the Levin Center not only for recognizing my scholarship, but for providing invaluable resources and support for oversight scholars, students, and practitioners across the country.”

The Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy was established at Wayne State University Law School in 2015 to carry on the legislative oversight and vision of Senator Carl Levin, Michigan’s longest-serving senator. The Center serves as a nationwide hub for research and scholarship on legislative thought. Its Oversight Research Award, presented annually, is named in Senator Levin’s honor. The award includes a $2,500 cash prize.

Zdeb will present her winning paper in a Zoom webinar on October 15, 2026, at 12:15 p.m. ET. RSVP for her presentation.