2011 Prize Criteria
Three $100,000 prizes were presented to individuals under the age of 40 who demonstrate leadership in their fields and who show creativity, commitment, and extraordinary accomplishment in effecting positive social change. Half of the monetary prize will be given to the recipient, and half will be contributed to an organization committed to the winner’s area of social justice. Nominees were allowed to be nationals of any country and the program encouraged a global and diverse pool of candidates. The record of the individual’s achievement to date was key to the selection committee’s appraisal; promise for ongoing advancement of his/her work was also considered. In keeping with the history of Grinnell College, recipients were individuals who have advanced social issues in ways that embody the values of a liberal arts education and collaborative leadership. Areas of accomplishment included, but were not limited to: Science, Medicine, the Environment, Humanities, Business, Economics, Education, Law, Public Policy, Social Services, Religion, Ethics, and projects which cross these boundaries. The program made a special effort to seek nominations of individuals who work in areas that may not have been traditionally viewed as directly connected to social justice, such as the arts and business. Nominees were required to meet the following criteria:
- Prize nominees had not yet turned 40 by January 1, 2011
- Prize nominees had an exceptional record of substantive, innovative contributions within their chosen field that have enabled them to become a force for social justice.
- Through their actions, prize nominees embodied the Grinnell College ideal of using their knowledge and their abilities to serve the common good.
- Prize nominees reflected the diversity of the Grinnell community and the world in which we live.
- Prize nominees were considered from any country. No affiliation to Grinnell College was required.
- Prize nominees demonstrated the essence of Grinnell College’s broad liberal arts education through critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and free inquiry.
- Prize nominees were nominated by a third party.
- Prize winners and organizations were verified and validated by Grinnell College.
- Prize winners will participate in an on-campus symposium and awards ceremony.
