Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) honored University President Emeritus Fr. Theodore Hesburgh with its most prestigious award, the Centennial Medal, the organization announced Sunday in a press release.
CCUSA is a 100-year-old organization working to reduce poverty in the United States. Hesburgh received the Centennial Medal during a special ceremony in Alexandria, Va., Sunday. The medal recognizes individuals for contributions to reducing poverty in the United States, the release stated.
CCUSA President and CEO Rev. Larry Snyder said in the release that Hesburgh stands apart based on his leadership and his example to others.
"We honor a man not only deeply admired and respected in this country, but around the world," Snyder said. "Father Hesburgh's life has been one of devotion to education and service to his church — exemplified by his unparalleled 35 years as president of Notre Dame. Also, his dedication to our nation is largely without equal, serving on 16 Presidential commissions, including the Civil Rights Commission. Few are of his caliber."
