The John W. Gardner Leadership Award was established in 1985 to honor outstanding Americans who exemplify the leadership and the ideals of John W. Gardner (1912-2002), American statesman and founding chair of Independent Sector. Independent Sector presents the Award each year to an individual whose leadership in or with the nonprofit community has been transformative and who has mobilized and unified people, institutions, or causes that improve people’s lives.

The 2011 nomination process will open in October of 2010.

• About the Award
• Nomination and Selection Process
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipients of the Award
• About the Life of John W. Gardner

The William Randolph Hearst Foundations is a generous supporter of the
2010 John W. Gardner Leadership Award.

gen. colin and alma Powell to Receive
2010 Gardner Award

General Colin and Alma Powell will receive the 2010 John W. Gardner Leadership Award in recognition of their tireless commitment to young people, service, and advancing the common good. The Powells have had a breadth of impact ranging from youth issues to support for America’s arts and culture.

View the press release about the Powells.