General Colin Powell Receives American Patriot of Character Award

Civil servant and retired Army General honored for outstanding service to America, commitment to ethical conduct

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- General Colin Powell, former US Secretary of State, received the American Patriot of Character Award presented by The Character Education Partnership during their 16th annual National Forum on Character Education, in Alexandria, VA, Friday.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091104/DC05108 )

The American Patriot of Character Award honors one American citizen whose leadership exemplifies the very best of the nation's founding principles. The award recognizes individuals not only for great success in their chosen field, but also for upholding the highest ethical standards in service of the common good.

"General Powell is a remarkable public servant who has truly made a positive difference in our nation," CEP's executive director Joe Mazzola said. "He is a shining example of integrity for young people, and all American citizens, to emulate. We are honored to have him as the first recipient of this award."

In his acceptance remarks Powell talked about his family's emphasis on good character and achievement. He said a turning point in his life came about when he entered the ROTC program in college, and it emphasized West Point's code of ethics.

General Powell also congratulated the National Schools of Character award winners who were in attendance to receive their awards. He commended the educators for their efforts to develop students of good character.

About CEP
Character Education Partnership advocates for quality, comprehensive character education in our nation's schools. It is a national, nonpartisan, nonprofit coalition of organizations and individuals based in Washington, DC. CEP is led by business and educational leaders who are dedicated to the advancement of quality character education as a key component of positive school reform, improved academic achievement, responsible citizenship and the pursuit of one's best work in school and all areas of life.

About National Schools of Character
The purpose of the National Schools of Character awards program is to identify, honor, and showcase exemplars in character education and facilitate their leadership in mentoring others. The goal of the national program is to provide a variety of models of comprehensive, quality character education, representing America's diverse educational system.

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Joseph Mazzola
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Janice Stoodley
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