William and Ida Friday Medal Presented to Former Governor Hunt
November 21, 2008
Durham, N.C.—In the continuing the tradition of honoring significant contributions to education, The William and Ida Friday Medal was presented to former Governor James B. Hunt, Jr., on November 19, 2008. The presentation, at The Friday Institute for Educational Innovation on the Centennial Campus of North Carolina State University, is an annual event recognizing leaders who exemplify an undying commitment to education excellence through distinguished contributions to the profession. The medal signifies both inspiration and innovation. William Friday, who served as president of the University of North Carolina system for 30 years, has provided vision in education to rural and underserved areas and advised two United States presidents.
Executive Director of the Hunt Institute Judith Rizzo said, “This acknowledgment continues to prove the work being done by Governor Hunt is having a major impact in the area of education. He is an innovative leader who cares about the future of children.” Rizzo continued to say “Receiving the award during National American Education Week reemphasizes the need for everyone to help prepare today’s youth for college and for jobs in an ever-changing and demanding world.”
Hunt is an advocate for high standards in public schools. Since its inception in 2001, the four-term governor has served as chairman of the James B. Hunt, Jr., Institute for Educational Leadership and Policy. The Hunt Institute focuses its efforts on state-level education improvement by engaging governors and other political leaders, education experts, and researchers to advance and sustain education reform. The state’s Smart Start program, created by Hunt, provides quality child care, health care, and family support for each child in need throughout North Carolina.
Hunt’s educational efforts led to one of the nation’s most rigorous approaches for measuring student performance by requiring mastery of skills and providing assistance to turn around failing schools. His focus and leadership led to the establishment of the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. He co-chaired the Committee of 50, which led to the Carnegie Forum on Education and the Economy—eventually becoming the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. In this capacity, he helped develop assessments enabling teachers to become “board certified.” He chaired the National Education Goals Panel and was vice chair of Achieve, Inc.
His efforts to support and improve education have led to numerous recognitions including awards from the Children’s Defense Fund, Columbia University’s Teachers College, Council of Chief State School Officers, and the National Education Association. A partner in the Raleigh law firm of Womble Carlyle Sandridge and Rice, Hunt is a graduate of both North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill.