The TIAA-CREF Theodore M. Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence is named in honor of the Reverend Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., president emeritus of the University of Notre Dame and former member of the TIAA-CREF Board of Overseers. A nationally renowned educator and world humanitarian, Father Hesburgh is considered one of the most influential figures in higher education in recent history. He was also a member of the TIAA-CREF Board of Overseers for 28 years.
The award recognizes leadership and commitment to higher education and contributions to the greater good. It is presented to a current college or university president or chancellor who embodies the spirit of Father Hesburgh, his commitment and contributions to higher education and society. The award is administered by the TIAA-CREF Institute and presented at the American Council on Education annual meeting.
The 2009 TIAA-CREF Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence was awarded to Graham Spanier, President of The Pennsylvania State University.
Graham Spanier was appointed Penn State's 16th president in 1995. Dr. Spanier has focused on "humanizing the university," "student centeredness" and "integration of teaching, research and service." His energy, optimism and good humor have created what some would call an "unconventional" approach to the modern university presidency.
During his tenure as Penn State President, Dr. Spanier internationalized the university, was instrumental in developing The International Center for the Study of Terrorism, helped create programs to educate students about alcohol abuse, and advanced the use of technology in higher education. Enrollment has increased 21 percent during his tenure and the University's endowment has increased 359%.
In an interview with the TIAA-CREF Institute about the award that bears his name, Father Hesburgh stated that, "Vision is what leadership is all about. Leadership is how you bring vision into reality. If you want people to go with you, you have to share a vision."
Dr. Spanier added, "Leadership is about vision first and foremost, but it's also about getting it done. There also has to be execution. It's about creating an environment where it's possible for everyone to succeed and feel good about what they are doing."
Video of Dr. Spanier and Father Hesburgh discussing leadership and higher education is available below. To learn more about the award and Dr. Spanier's accomplishments click here.
