“To develop, engage and recognize exceptional leaders who champion the American Idea.” This has been the mission and privilege of the Jack Kemp Foundation since our founding in 2009. To celebrate our ten-year anniversary, and the people, events and ideas that have inspired us, we hosted our annual Kemp Leadership Award Dinner on November 19 at the International Spy Museum.
The evening began with Larry Kudlow, Director of the United States National Economic Council, who shared special remarks about his friend, Jack Kemp. Representative Will Hurd followed by delivering the keynote address about his unique perspective on American exceptionalism.
Past awardees Senator Tim Scott, Senator Marco Rubio and Speaker Paul Ryan joined a panel discussion, moderated by Representative Elise Stefanik, and offered personal reflections on leadership and the American Idea.
The evening concluded with a tribute to the late Librarian of Congress James Billington and a special performance of "I'm a Kemp Republican", performed by Greg Watkins and written by Michelle Van Cleave.
Each of our past Kemp Leadership awardees and speakers bears witness to America's great promise: “If you were born to be a master carpenter, or a mezzo-soprano—or even a pro football player—” as Jack Kemp said, “here in America you could make it…”
Watch videos from the dinner below!
"I'm a Kemp Republican" performed by Greg Watkins