Award Description
The Peter Jennings Award for Civic Leadership is presented annually to one Teach For America alumnus/a whose work has led to far-reaching systemic change in that given year. Nominees should be able to point to significant and measurable impact in addressing an issue of critical importance to closing the achievement gap. They should demonstrate extraordinary leadership, embody the core values of Teach For America, and exhibit an unwavering commitment to educational equity and excellence.
Teach For America is honored to offer this award, named as a tribute to journalist and ABC News anchor Peter Jennings, whose friendship and deep commitment to our organization and mission have done so much to advance this cause. The winner receives a $10,000 prize to be used as they wish.
Past Winners
The 2008 Peter Jennings Award for Civic Leadership was presented to Cami Anderson (Los Angeles Corps '93) for her work as superintendent of New York City Schools District 79, which serves 90,000 students who have dropped out of the traditional education system and are in alternative programs such as transfer schools, suspension sites, and correctional education facilities. Read Cami Anderson's acceptance speech
Read her bio
The 2007 Peter Jennings Award for Civic Leadership was presented to Michelle Rhee (Baltimore Corps ’92) for her work as CEO and president of The New Teacher Project. She is currently the superintendent of D.C. public schools. Read her bio
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Peter Jennings Award for Civic Leadership, the candidate must be a Teach For America alumnus/a who is working towards realizing our vision of educational equity in under-resourced areas.
Who can nominate?
Teach For America alumni, staff, and others in the arena of education and social reform may submit candidates for consideration. Self-nominations will also be accepted.
Deadline
The deadline for completed nomination forms is Thursday, February 13, 2009 at midnight.
Fill out a nomination form
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Corps and Alumni