Awards and Prizes
Presented by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation
Gerald R. Ford Medal for Distinguished Public Service
Each year, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation awards the Medal for Distinguished Public Service to persons who have served the public good in the private and public sectors. The award is presented during a ceremony held in June at the Foundation’s annual dinner in Washington, D.C. The Gerald R. Ford Medal for Distinguished Public Service recognizes outstanding public contributions by individuals who reflect the qualities demonstrated by President Ford during his public service: strength of character, integrity, trustworthiness, fidelity to principles in decision making, sound judgment, decisiveness (particularly during periods of crisis), determination in the face of adversity, diligence, self-confidence balanced with respect for the views of others, and self-discipline in one’s personal life.
Gerald R. Ford Journalism Prizes for Reporting on the Presidency and on National Defense
Each year, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation awards two distinguished journalism prizes, one for reporting on the Presidency and the other for reporting on National Defense. These prizes, initiated in 1988, recognize reportorial excellence and news coverage that fosters a better public understanding of the presidency and national defense. Each year the two prizes are presented to the winners at a reception and event in Washington, D.C. and include a $5,000 award, one for each prize.
President Gerald R. Ford Student Writing Challenge
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation’s annual Student Writing Challenge invites students across the country to explore the values embodied by our 38th President as he answered the call to public service—and to consider how those values remain relevant today.
Each year, the theme of the challenge highlights a key aspect of Gerald R. Ford’s character, encouraging thoughtful reflection on leadership, integrity, and civic responsibility.
Awards and Prizes in Honor of Gerald R. Ford
Presented by Other Organizations
NCAA President’s Gerald R. Ford Award
The NCAA award, named in recognition of former President Gerald Ford, honors an individual who has provided significant leadership as an advocate for intercollegiate athletics on a continuous basis over the course of their career. It was established in 2004 by the late NCAA President Myles Brand.
Gerald R. Ford Legends Award Presented by Rimington Trophy
The award is presented to former collegiate or professional centers who, in addition to standout football careers, have also made significant contributions to the football and/or business communities, or through philanthropic endeavors