 The American Patriot of Character Award honors one American citizen whose leadership exemplifies the very best of the nation’s founding principles. The award recognizes individuals not only for great success in their chosen field, but also for upholding the highest ethical standards in service of the common good.The award is usually presented at the National Forum on Character Education. Last year’s speech by award-winner Colin Powell was one of the hightlights of the conference. Watch video of his speech. |
| 2010 Winner The 2010 winner is S. Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A. Under his leadership, Chick-fil-A grew from a single restaurant in 1967 into one of the largest and most successful chains in America. In addition to being a remarkably successful and visionary entrepreneur, Cathy is widely recognized as a servant leader, a dedicated family man, a person of principle and faith, and a philanthropist dedicated to improving the lives of young people and communities. “Mr. Cathy is a wonderful example of what makes our nation great,” Executive Director Joe Mazzola said. ”Through hard work, sacrifice, a commitment to excellence and servant-based leadership, he achieved great success as a businessman. Along his life’s journey, Mr. Cathy stayed true to his faith, his family, and the values his parents taught him as a young boy. He also chose to enrich the lives of others by giving back in powerful and meaningful ways. CEP is proud to present him the 2010 American Patriot of Character award.” In recognition of his selfless service and strong character, Cathy has won the Cecil B. Day Ethics Award, the Tom Landry Excellence of Character Award, the Norman Vincent and Ruth Stafford Peale Humanitarian Award, and countless other honors over his lifetime. |
| 2009 Winner
CEP’s executive director Joe Mazzola said, “He is a shining example of integrity for young people, and all American citizens, to emulate. We are honored to have him as the first recipient of this award.” In his acceptance remarks Powell talked about his family’s emphasis on good character and achievement. He said a turning point in his life came about when he entered the ROTC program in college, and it emphasized West Point’s code of ethics. Watch video. |
The American Patriot of Character Award
General Colin Powell, former US Secretary of State, received the American Patriot of Character Award presented by The Character Education Partnership during the16th annual National Forum on Character Education. “General Powell is a remarkable public servant who has truly made a positive difference in our nation.”