2010 NATION
BUILDER AWARDS |
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NBCSL is proud to honor this year's Nation Builder Recipients who
have all made significant contributions to, and laid the foundation
for the political, economic and social progress of African Americans. |
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2009 RECIPIENT - Congressman Kendrick B. Meek
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Meet a Tireless, Talented and Passionate Crusader for Florida, the Nation, and Beyond Throughout his personal and political life, Congressman Kendrick B. Meek has displayed exceptional leadership skills—including the ability to build consensus and achieve bipartisan support on many key issues. It is no wonder that Florida voters have elected this Miami native to four consecutive terms in the House of Representatives. Congressman Meek's responsibilities and accomplishments are as broad as his talents and passions. He serves on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, where his voice is regularly heard on such paramount issues as trade, Social Security, Medicare, affordable public housing, child welfare, and job creation. As an experienced legislator whose public service includes twelve years in the Florida House and Senate, Congressman Meek has left his mark on a diverse range of legislation. He secured major funding for the Miami Metrorail. He spearheaded an initiative to reduce school class size in Florida. He expanded the number of Medicare-supported physician residency training positions throughout the U.S. In short, his legislative accomplishments have improved the lives of millions. Representative Meek's leadership extends into the international arena, as well. Since 2007, he has served on the NATO Parliamentary Assembly—one of only twelve members of Congress appointed to this important position. As the Congressman with the largest number of constituents of Haitian descent, he has been instrumental in passing legislation to address poverty and instability in this nearby neighbor. Congressman Meek has rightfully been hailed as a rising star in American politics. His legacy burns brighter with each new day he serves in the House of Representatives. |
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2009 RECIPIENT - Hill Harper
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Acclaimed Actor. Inspiring Speaker. Celebrated Author. Heralded Leader. Hill Harper Is a Force for Positive Change in America. Hill Harper is a familiar face to millions of Americans. He stars in the television series CSI:NY and has played major roles in some of the most critically acclaimed films of our generation. Through his celebrated work, Harper has continued the legacy of our nation's great African American performer. Many of Hill Harper's finest accomplishments, however, have been forged off set. Harper is a role model for young Americans who aspire to improve themselves through education. He graduated from Brown University, then received Juris Doctor and Master of Public Administration degrees from Harvard. These credentials paved the way for Harper to launch one of our nation's premier non-profit organizations serving young people: the Manifest Your Destiny Foundation. With a mission of empowering and inspiring underserved youth, the organization focuses on mentoring, internships, scholarships, community service, and small business support. Harper is also the author of Letters to a Young Brother, a best-selling book that was named "Best Book for Young Adults" by the American Library Association. He also wrote the highly acclaimed follow-up, Letters to a Young Sister. These publications have received glowing reviews for reaching an audience that is largely disregarded by the publishing industry. As a celebrated author and performer, Harper maintains a rigorous schedule of appearances—speaking at colleges and serving as guest of honor at many social events. He has emerged as one of the most compassionate, charismatic, and multi-talented leaders of his generation. For his countless endeavors and successes, Hill Harper is eminently worthy of the title of Nation Builder. |
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2008 NATIONAL RECIPIENT - President Barack Obama
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From Hawaii to Kansas, Chicago to Harvard, and the state house to the White House; This history-making catalyst for change has created a new trajectory for American leadership and civic participation. As an organizer on the south side of Chicago, President-Elect Obama learned from the community, shared his knowledge, and led by example. As a former NBCSL member, he served in the Illinois State Senate where he worked as a bi-partisan advocate for early childhood education and an earned income tax credit that provided tax relief to working families in Illinois. During his time as a United States Senator, President-Elect Obama fought on behalf of veteran’s benefits, government transparency, and for alternative fuels to lessen America’s dependence on foreign oil.
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2007 NATIONAL RECIPIENT - The Honorable William Jefferson Clinton |
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From rural Arkansas to global prominence, this world leader has been guided by the highest ideals of compassion, service and commitment. Former President William Jefferson Clinton is hailed as one of the most accomplished and visionary Presidents in American history. He led the United States through an extended period of peace and prosperity. Rather than fade into history, President Clinton has intensified his efforts to make the world a better place. The William J. Clinton Foundation is a national and global leader in multiple landmark initiatives. President Clinton has enjoyed a long, productive, and sincere relationship with the African American community as he rose to ever-higher levels of power within our government. Perhaps because of his upbringing in rural Arkansas, he has been able to identify with the struggles faced by countless African Americans and many of our country’s most vulnerable and disenfranchised populations Today, President Clinton’s personal office is located in Harlem, New York—a symbol of the productive relationship he continues to enjoy with the African American community and its leaders. All Americans owe much to this man of principle—a man whose leadership continues to build a better, stronger and more equitable world. |
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| 2006 NATIONAL RECIPIENT - The Honorable Marion Barry | ||
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As America’s Mayor, this man has
worked tirelessly to bring opportunity and vitality to the nation’s
capital.
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| 2005 NATIONAL RECIPIENT - The Honorable Linda W. Cropp | ||
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Effective Policies. Visionary Leadership. This councilwoman is leading the District of Columbia into a new area of prosperity. As Chair of the Council of the District of Columbia, Ms. Linda Cropp has advanced an ambitious agenda to improve both the lives of her constituents and the experience of thousands of tourists who visit the nation's capital every year. In additional to expanding key community services such as a public transportation, she has introduced structural and legislative reforms that have streamlined government and saved taxpayers money. Her expertise in health care, housing, and welfare reform and renowned. Known as a skilled politician and consensus-builder, Ms. Cropp has re-elected three times by her constituents - an overwhelming endorsement of her effective leadership. |
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