FAU alumnus Eduardo Padrón Receives Medal from Obama
Eduardo Padrón, president of Miami Dade College and an alumnus of Florida Atlantic University College of Business, was one of 21 people to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom Tuesday at the White House.
Padrón, who graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from FAU in 1966, was joined by other honorees including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, Michael Jordan and Bruce Springsteen.
Eduardo Padrón, president of Miami Dade College and an alumnus of Florida Atlantic University College of Business, was one of 21 people to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom Tuesday at the White House.
Padrón, who graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from FAU in 1966, was joined by other honorees including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, Michael Jordan and Bruce Springsteen.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor, and the honorees are selected by the president for their contributions to the security or national interests of the country.
"The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not just our nation's highest civilian honor - it's a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better," President Barack Obama said in a statement when the list of honorees was announced last week. "From scientists, philanthropists and public servants to activists, athletes and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way."
Padrón was chosen because of his work over four decades to ensure that all students have access to high quality, affordable education.
"He has championed innovative teaching and learning strategies, making MDC a national model of excellence," the White House Press Office said in a news release.
Daniel Gropper, Ph.D., dean of the FAU College of Business, was one of several South Florida leaders to congratulate Padrón.
“The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an incredible symbol of achievement, and a fantastic recognition of what you have done,” Gropper wrote in an email to Padrón. “Although I can claim no part in your success, in my role as an educational leader at your alma mater, I will do my best to carry forward the tradition of opening the doors of opportunity for all FAU students."
-FAU-
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