As CEO of InterAction – the largest coalition of U.S.-based non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and partners – I have met many uniquely impressive leaders.
These individuals inspire others, both from within the NGO sector and outside of it, to advocate for a more equal and just world. They spark innovation and encourage partnerships across physical and intangible borders. They make a lasting impact.
Every year, InterAction celebrates and honors the achievements of these remarkable individuals by presenting the Julia Vadala Taft Outstanding Leadership Award to an individual in the community of U.S.-based international NGOs whose career and vision has transcended his or her own organization by raising the influence and profile of the U.S. NGO sector as a whole. It celebrates the very best of who we are as a sector.
We are proud to award the 2016 award to David Beckmann. A Lutheran pastor and economist, David has served as president of Bread for the World Institute since 1991 and is a World Food Prize laureate. Much like his organization – which provides policy analysis on hunger and strategies to end it – David has a legacy of leading large-scale and successful campaigns to strengthen U.S. political commitment to overcome hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world.
In addition to his work with Bread for the World, David is the founder and president of the Alliance to End Hunger, which engages diverse and interfaith U.S. institutions, in building the political will to end hunger.
Even on paper, it is easy to see how David has dedicated his life and career to helping others rise out of poverty and alleviate hunger. We are honored to recognize this commitment, and look forward to working with David, Bread for the World, the Alliance to End Hunger, and all of our members to make this mission a reality.
Watch the video below to learn more about David Beckmann’s sector-wide legacy a leader.
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