The Dickinson College President's Award is a symbol of excellence and distinction. The award is bestowed by President John E. Jones III ’77, P’11, to individuals who lead lives of service, forge new paths in their respective fields, contribute meaningfully to the betterment of the world and inspire future generations.
The inaugural recipients of the President's Award are General David Petraeus P’04 and Holly Petraeus ’74, P’04, in recognition of their exemplary lives of service, both to their nation and to their community.
General Petraeus, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency and Commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, the Surge in Iraq, and US Central Command, has been a bastion of strategic leadership and tactical acumen. His commendable service to his nation, in theaters of conflict and arenas of policy, is an exemplar of steadfast commitment and exceptional diligence. His numerous awards include four Defense Distinguished Service Medals, the Bronze Star for Valor, the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Medal, two NATO Meritorious Service Medals, and decorations from 14 foreign countries.
Holly Petraeus has been a stalwart advocate for the military and their families. At the Better Business Bureau, she developed a nationwide military consumer education and advocacy program, BBB Military Line. In 2011 she was selected to be the first head of the Office of Servicemember Affairs at the newly created federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. During her tenure, millions of dollars were returned to servicemembers, veterans and their families from companies that had broken the law in their dealings with them. She is a recipient of the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service and the Colonel Roger H. C. Donlon Patriot Award. She is also an honorary Navy Chief Petty Officer.
