--- title: The Presidential Medal of Freedom description: The Presidential Medal of Freedom --- [1-858-228-3771](tel:1-858-228-3771) [![SpeakInc](https://blog.speakinc.com/hs-fs/hubfs/speakinc-logo.png?width=197&height=48&name=speakinc-logo.png "SpeakInc")](http://speakinc.com/) - [Speakers](http://speakinc.com/speaker) - [Individual Speakers](http://speakinc.com/speaker) - [Speaker News](http://speakinc.com/speaker-news/) - [About](http://speakinc.com/about) - [Our Team](http://speakinc.com/our-team) - [Careers](http://speakinc.com/about/careers) - [Blog](https://blog.speakinc.com/our-blog) - [FAQ](http://speakinc.com/faq) - [Contact Us](http://speakinc.com/contact-us) - [Request Consultation](http://speakinc.com/contact/request-consultation) - [Become a SpeakInc Speaker](http://speakinc.com/contact-us/become-a-speakinc-speaker/) # SpeakInc Blog # The Presidential Medal of Freedom by [Chris](https://blog.speakinc.com/author/chris) | August 14, 2009 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an annual award that was created after World War II when President Truman wanted to honor civilian service during the war. On Wednesday,  in the East Room of The White House, President Barack Obama awarded the nation's highest civilian honor to 16 "agents of change.” He highlighted their accomplishments as examples of the goals a person can reach and the difference they can make in the lives of others. The 16 honored at the ceremony were: • Nancy Goodman Brinker • Pedro José Greer, Jr. • Stephen Hawking • Jack Kemp • Sen. Edward Kennedy • Billie Jean King • The Rev. Joseph Lowery • Joe Medicine Crow-High Bird • Harvey Milk • Sandra Day O'Connor • Sidney Poitier • Chita Rivera • Mary Robinson • Janet Davison Rowley • Desmond Tutu • Muhammad Yunus   Congratulations to these amazing honorees!  For information on Medal of Freedom award winners who speak as well as others who have made a considerable difference in the lives of others, please contact us at info@speakinc.com Topics: [Blog](https://blog.speakinc.com/topic/blog) ### Written by [Chris](https://blog.speakinc.com/author/chris) [![Need more information? Let our experts take the guesswork out of planning this key element of your next meeting and find the right keynote speaker for your event.  ](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/421388/interactive-209241923181.png)](https://blog.speakinc.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLL0yUxSpEdR3SABL1XeKIZMPnMS5G6MnuvAaNCS4%2FvrMKjsR9qTbXXt8Ax8ay1oLKoiXnm6WzqUwCaoSyAUv7Wig5ASB55pIGzuzdllM4hlevQVnC0hiLbGKPzFOeQU63xjw6m9dRKRO1KpHLTEL4QpLRTCe%2Bii70D71EzVTKJUJZkIZYlroJ%2FDs37V4TE0O0qTHGlyOMtT&webInteractiveContentId=209241923181&portalId=421388) Name/Category Search ### **Don't Miss Out!** Get monthly email notifications of our latest articles that include: - Keynote Speaker Highlights - Conference & Event Planning Tips - Free Resources - Industry News [1-858-228-3771](tel:1-858-228-3771) **SpeakInc.** 10680 Treena Street, Suite 230 San Diego, CA 92131 - [Home](http://spki10347s.elevatoragency.com/) - [Privacy Policy](http://spki10347s.elevatoragency.com/privacy-policy/) - [Terms & Conditions](http://spki10347s.elevatoragency.com/terms-conditions/) - [Live Chat](http://spki10347s.elevatoragency.com/creating-complete-well-done-conference-website/#live-chat) - - - - ### Sign Up for Industry News Disclaimer: Speak Inc. Speakers Bureau is not responsible for errors, omissions or outdated information on this website. The material presented on this site is provided by the speakers who are accountable for any copyright information including licensing fees if required. Speak Inc. Speakers Bureau has permission to post the biographies, topics, photos and videos with the understanding from the speakers that the information presented is legally owned by them. © 2026 SpeakInc. All rights reserved.