James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award
Sponsored by Applied Materials, Inc.
The James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award honors individuals whose broad vision and leadership are helping to address humanity's greatest challenges. The Global Humanitarian Award was inspired by Applied Materials Chairman, Jim Morgan. Jim demonstrates in his work and his philanthropy that technology can unleash the potential in all of us and turn our ideas into concrete solutions for a better world and that corporations can play a vital role in helping identify and extend the benefits of technology to those who need them most.
Jim Morgan received the National Medal of Technology for his industry leadership and his vision in building Applied Materials into the world's leading semiconductor equipment company. He also offers his time and guidance to organizations including The Center for Science, Technology, and Society at Santa Clara University, Joint Venture: Silicon Valley, World Presidents' Organization, and The Nature Conservancy. He is a founder and steadfast supporter of The Tech Awards.
2010 Global Humanitarian Award Recipient - Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan
World-renowned human rights and education advocate Queen Rania Al Abdullah of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has been named recipient of the 2010 James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award by The Tech Museum. The Global Humanitarian Award is part of the museum's international program, The Tech Awards, which honors innovators from around the world who are applying technology to benefit humanity. Her Majesty will be honored on November 6 in Santa Clara, Calif., at the Santa Clara Convention Center during The Tech Awards gala, an annual celebration presented by Applied Materials. In addition to the humanitarian award, 15 laureates will be honored at the gala for creating innovative technology solutions to address some of the most urgent issues facing our planet.
Queen Rania was selected to receive the Global Humanitarian Award for her leadership and efforts in protecting human rights around the world. She has led a relentless campaign for broader access to schools and higher quality education for children, especially girls.
"I am honored to be the recipient of the Global Humanitarian Award and to be recognized for work that I believe in so deeply," Queen Rania said. "In a world gripped by economic crisis, conflict and contagious disease, education can be a path to growth, a boost to public health and a stepping stone toward peace. It's the best investment we can make to help people lift themselves out of poverty."
Queen Rania is considered one of the world's most influential women and has held prominent roles such as Eminent Advocate for The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and Honorary Chairperson for The United Nations Girls' Education Initiative (UNGEI). Campaigning around the globe on behalf of children, she works to encourage organizations to improve classroom quality, teaching standards, computer access, community investment, and health awareness. In Jordan, she has led initiatives to refurbish local schools and inspire teachers. Her organization, The Jordan River Foundation (JRF), is highly regarded for its success in advocating for children and giving families the skills to work themselves out of poverty and become self sufficient.
"As a champion for those in need and a powerful force in making education a reality for children everywhere, Queen Rania is an inspiring and deserving recipient of the Global Humanitarian Award," said Peter Friess, president of The Tech Museum. "Together with Queen Rania, the museum is proud to shine a bright, global light on the importance of lifelong learning as key to addressing critical issues affecting our lives and our world."
Mike Splinter, Chairman and CEO of Applied Materials said Queen Rania embodies the spirit of the Global Humanitarian Award. Her commitment to education has created countless opportunities for children in Jordan and around the world. Her accomplishments are truly remarkable in scope and scale."
"As the education category sponsor for The Tech Awards, we are delighted to join in honoring Her Majesty for her steadfast commitment and contribution to making quality education accessible to all, " said Dan'l Lewin, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Corporation.
