Presented each year at the September Soiree, the award recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to the common good exemplify the very best of engaged citizenship.

Recipients of this award have strengthened our communities by informing the public, advancing education, fostering civic participation, and inspiring others to become active participants in our democracy. Their work reflects the Rendell Center’s belief that informed, engaged citizens are the foundation of a strong and vibrant democracy.

Honorees

2026 – Kathryn Ott Lowell

Kathryn Ott Lovell is recognized for a career dedicated to strengthening Philadelphia and celebrating the city’s extraordinary history, culture, and people.

As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, Kathryn has brought together civic, cultural, business, and government leaders to showcase Philadelphia as one of the world’s great destinations. Her collaborative leadership has elevated the city’s profile while creating meaningful experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Most recently, Kathryn has played a pivotal leadership role in advancing Philadelphia250, bringing together organizations and communities to commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary while highlighting Philadelphia’s central place in the American story. Her vision, collaborative leadership, and lifelong commitment to public service embody the spirit of engaged citizenship and make her a truly deserving recipient of this honor.

2025 – Annenberg Public Policy Center

Established in 1993, the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania advances public understanding of political, scientific, and health issues through independent research, education, and public service.

Under the leadership of Dr. Kathleen Hall Jamieson, the Center has become one of the nation’s most trusted sources of nonpartisan information. Its nationally recognized initiatives—including FactCheck.org, Annenberg Classroom, the Civics Renewal Network, and groundbreaking research in civic education, science communication, and public health—have empowered millions of Americans with accurate, evidence-based information.’

As a valued partner of the Rendell Center, the Annenberg Public Policy Center has helped advance civic education and promote informed participation in our democracy. Its enduring commitment to truth, scholarship, and public service reflects the highest ideals of engaged citizenship.

2024 – Amy Goldman & Jim Gardner

Amy Goldman and Jim Gardner exemplify the very best of engaged citizenship through lives dedicated to public service, leadership, and community engagement.

For nearly five decades, Jim Gardner earned the trust of generations of viewers as the face of 6abc Action News. His distinguished career was defined by fairness, integrity, and professionalism, making him one of Philadelphia’s most respected journalists. By delivering reliable, thoughtful reporting on the issues that shaped our region and nation, Jim helped foster an informed public and strengthen civic life. His commitment to future generations continues through the Jim Gardner Scholarship at Temple University, which supports aspiring journalists.

Amy Goldman has devoted more than two decades to strengthening public education and civic participation. During her service on the Radnor Township School Board, including two terms as president, she championed transparent governance, meaningful public engagement, and opportunities for students and families to become active participants in their schools and communities. Today, she continues to mentor school board members and educational leaders through Educational Leadership Consulting.

Together, Amy and Jim have demonstrated that engaged citizenship is built through trust, service, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to helping others become informed, involved, and empowered members of their communities.