Rep. Charles Rangel honored by Jackie Robinson Foundation

Jet, April 11, 2005

Rep. Charles B. Rangel (D-NY) recently received the Jackie Robinson Foundation's (JRF) Lifetime Achievement Award during the organization's annual awards dinner at the famed Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.

Rangel was joined by fellow honoree John A. Thain, CEO of the New York Stock Exchange, who received the Robie Award for Achievement in Industry.

"Each of our honorees has championed the qualities that meant the most to Jackie Robinson: opportunity and education," said Della Britton Baeza, president and CEO of the Jackie Robinson Foundation. "They have not only been leaders in their respective fields, but in their communities and society at large."

Rangel's Lifetime Achievement Award is the Foundation's highest tribute to an individual who has championed civil rights and public service, all in the spirit of Jackie Robinson. Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, longtime Foundation supporter, presented the award to him.

The Robie Achievement in Industry is the Foundation's highest tribute to an individual in the corporate world who has promoted and expanded success and opportunities for minorities. The award was presented to Thain by Mellody Hobson, president, Ariel Capital Management.

Rachel Robinson, widow of baseball pioneer Jackie Robinson, founded the Foundation in 1973 as a vehicle to perpetuate the memory of Robinson and his achievements.

The Foundation provides four-year college scholarships as well as education and leadership development opportunities for students of color who have strong capabilities, but limited financial resources.