Since 2000, the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation has hosted an annual program in partnership with George Washington University’s Center for Excellence in Public Leadership (CEPL) to highlight the contributions of District of Columbia government employees who work behind the scenes to improve the lives of city residents.
Calvin Cafritz, the president and director of the foundation, said, “We hope to raise public awareness about these individuals and send a message to other government employees that their dedication and accomplishment is very valued.”
George Washington President Steven Knapp acknowledged the Cafritz Foundation as a major contributor to university programs including its support in the startup of the Center for Excellence in Public Leadership.
“Reflecting on that partnership,” he said, “was one of the things that inspired me to make partnerships with local institutions, between our university and the institutions of our great city one of the core focus areas of my presidency.”
Dr. Knapp was recognized by James Robinson, the director of CEPL, for his support of the mission of the Cafritz Foundation by “increasing significant public service and solidifying service to others as a hallmark of the university’s culture.” A major component of public service at GW is the Freshman Day of Service, which kicks off each academic year and led to students contributing 711, 841 hours of service in the past year.
This year, the Cafritz Award was presented to five individuals. The award carries with it $7,500 for each individual winner. More information about the awardees and their contributions can be read in the full GW Today story.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) closed out the evening by thanking the 33,000 workers in city government and expressing gratitude to Dr. Knapp.
