Benjamin Franklin Award for Public Diplomacy

The Benjamin Franklin Award recognizes that all sectors of American society – individuals, schools, foundations, associations, and corporations – actively contribute to advancing America’s ideals through public diplomacy. The award recognizes the outstanding leadership and contributions made by U.S. citizens and organizations, both here and abroad. 

On April 8, 2008, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice honored the recipients of the inaugural Benjamin Franklin Awards for Public Diplomacy. The awardees were chosen for their outstanding leadership in advancing America’s ideals through public diplomacy by offering a positive vision of hope and opportunity rooted in America's belief in freedom, justice, opportunity and respect for all.

Announced by Secretary Rice on January 10, 2007, this new award is among the most prestigious honors that the Department of State can bestow on U.S. citizens and non-governmental organizations. 

" Few individuals displayed the true character of America to the world better than Benjamin Franklin. In the same spirit of Franklin, this award will recognize the broad spectrum of businesses and foundations and non-governmental organizations and private citizens for their outstanding contributions to America's public diplomacy and we hope to highlight the exceptional and to inspire others.” 
                       --Secretary Rice at Private Sector Summit on Public Diplomacy 

In keeping with the character of Benjamin Franklin, the consummate public diplomat, these honors will give special emphasis to activities that:

• Provide hope and opportunities in the core areas of education, culture, and information.
• Empower, educate, and inspire key audiences such as women, students, and educators.
• Engage under-served communities and grassroots organizations.

Benjamin Franklin Awards are presented in four categories: individuals, corporations, educational organizations, and not-for-profit organizations (for example, foundations, associations, labor unions). Nomination information. 
 

Secretary Rice’s remarks from the Private Sector Summit on Public Diplomacy: text l video