Jacques Antoine - The Ingenious Creator
"Vision check! What appears to be nice or good may not always be nice or good. On the other hand, what appears to bad or unpleasant may turn out to be very good."

This man, abandoned by his mother as a child, rose above his personal challenges to successfully entertain France for the last 50 years as a radio and television personality and writer. With over 25 published books, 3 movies, 13 radio and 8 television programs to his credit, his creative mind and innovative ideas, combined with an unparalleled drive to achieve, are an inspiration to all who have their own goals.

Abbe Pierre - The Militant Humanitarian
"Reach out. Reach out. Reach out."

Before passing away on January 22, 2007, this Catholic priest was the most beloved and esteemed individual in France. He devoted his entire life to helping the homeless and the downtrodden by creating Emmaus International (www.emmaus-international.org), a relief organization that is active in 50 countries on five continents. His combative approach and refusal to accept the status quo enabled him to extend an open hand to the needy with the objective of restoring self-dignity.

Roberta Krause - The Perpetual Educator
"Education is the foundation of your future. You can’t have back what you have now so make the most of every moment."

Spending her entire career in the field of education, Mrs. Krause is the very definition of an involved educator. Her hands-on approach to learning and engaging professional style inspired many students throughout her career. Even in retirement, she continues to teach “life lessons” after narrowly escaping from the Marriot World Trade Center Hotel during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Her back-to-the-basics message is enlightening and informative as she shares how this event helped re-prioritize her life.

Alexandre Jollien - The Bond Breaker
"Connect with true happiness by reaching out to others and knowing who you truly are."

Alexandre Jollien was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck. The lack of oxygen to his brain left him with challenging physical handicaps. At an early age, his brilliant mind and insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to the teachings of the great philosophers. He has surmounted his physical barriers to become a published writer and philosopher. He also spreads a message of solidarity and tolerance by participating in conferences throughout Europe. (www.alexandre-jollien.ch).

Dora Treviño - The Determined Crusader
"Every decision has a consequence. Make conscious decisions."

Dora Treviño’s son “Auggie” was tragically murdered by a gang member in June, 1999. Before removing “Auggie” from life support, Mrs. Treviño vowed to her son that she would devote her life to the development of gang awareness and anti-violence. She has touched thousands of young lives with her presentations. Mrs. Treviño is currently involved in lobbying for changes in law and promoting a proactive approach to anti-violence in schools and society in general. Her message, encouraging all to consider the consequences of every decision, is powerful and pertinent. (www.stoptheviolencewa.tripod.com)

Daniel Kish - The Perceptive Visionary
"Remove the word CAN’T from your vocabulary."

Daniel Kish is the founder and director of World Access for the Blind. The objective of this organization is to develop awareness among the sighted population of the value of understanding and integrating non-sighted individuals into society. A survivor of retinal blastoma, Mr. Kish had both eyes removed by the age of 18 months in order to save his life. He has developed a technique called echolocation that he teaches to other non-sighted individuals to facilitate their daily life. His message is one of inspiration and hope. (www.worldaccessfortheblind.org).

Chad Pregracke - The Charismatic Catalyst
"You know the expression “Follow your dreams.” Don’t follow anything…. LEAD!"

Chad Pregracke is the founder of Living Lands and Waters. His one-man project of improving the environment by removing garbage from the Mississippi River has developed into a movement with over 27,000 volunteers. They have removed over 100 tons of refuse from rivers in the United States. Mr. Pregracke received the Jefferson Award for his contribution to environmental improvement in 2003. His leadership style and positive attitude are a reminder that one person can truly make a difference. (www.livinglandsandwaters.org)

Greg Mortensen - The Future Builder
"True freedom does not only come from studying, reading and writing. True freedom comes through never giving up hope."

Greg Mortenson became seriously ill on a climb to the top of K2. Losing his way as he descended the mountain, Mr. Mortenson arrived in the remote village of Korphe, Pakistan. One morning, during a short walk with the village chieftain, he was amazed to encounter a group of school children doing math problems in the mud with sticks as their only writing utensils. He vowed to return and build a school for these children. The school was built in Korphe, and with the support of the Central Asia Institute created by Mr. Mortenson, 55 schools have been built in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan in the last ten years. Mr. Mortenson has recently published a bestseller called Three Cups of Tea. ( www.ikat.org),

Nancy Brinker - The Torch Bearer
"True happiness is achieved by reaching out to others. "

Nancy Brinker founded the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation after losing her sister in a lengthy and painful battle with breast cancer. The foundation, which began with a shoebox, some old Rolodex cards and a few hundred dollars from a grocery budget, is now the leading private breast cancer research foundation in the world. With projected total donations of one billion dollars by the year 2008, the foundation’s work has funded countless research projects and contributed to the development of a better awareness of the importance of early detection. Mrs. Brinker was also a United States ambassador to Hungary.

Mark McEwen - The Trailblazer
"Learn to LISTEN."

Mark McEwen has had an illustrious career in the world of television. His friendly persona and contagious smile as a long-term anchor of the “The Early Show” on CBS, and then anchorman at WKMG in Orlando, Florida, brightened the day of many Americans for sixteen years. Mark was selected as one of the most trusted television personalities in a 1995 TV Guide survey. His world was significantly altered in 2005 when he suffered a devastating stroke while on assignment. Mark regained his ability to move and speak through sheer determination, will-power and special oxygen treatments. He has now become an inspirational voice for stroke patients around the nation.

Cheryl Brown - The Progressive Historian
"What is going to make a difference around the globe is people helping people. It doesn’t matter your age or your resources…. You CAN make a difference."

Cheryl Brown is the founder of the Brown Foundation for Educational Equity, Excellence and Research in Topeka, Kansas. The mission of this foundation is to maintain and to promote the memory of Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark civil rights case that bears her family name. She is relentless in her quest to credit each and every individual involved in the case including over 200 plaintiffs, lawyers and community activists. Her articulate and eloquent communicational style has enabled her to effectively promote a message of honesty, empowerment and action for youth. (www.brownvboard.org)

Betsy King - The Professional Learner
"You are NEVER too old to learn."

Betsy King is a well-known LPGA golfer. Her dedication and discipline have made her one of the most successful women in the history of golf. In September 2007, she led the United States team to a 16-12 victory in the Solheim Cup in Sweden. In addition to her many achievements in the world of sports, Betsy is a dedicated Christian who openly shares her faith with others. She works closely with several faith-based organizations that are providing care for children in need. She has used her professional success and fame to encourage and inspire others to work with her as humanitarian endeavors.