People to People Student
Ambassador Programs Awarded the Cavaliere per la Pace
In June 2006, People to People Student Ambassador Programs became
the first organization to receive the Knight for Peace (Cavaliere
per la Pace). The International Center for Peace (Centro
Internazionale per la Pace fra I Popoli Assisi) assigns the
Cavaliere per la Pace to individuals who aid in the spread of peace
and understanding to cultures all over the world. A tremendous
honor, the award is the most distinguished prize the city of Assisi,
Italy, can bestow. The list of past recipients includes Pope John
Paul II, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Mother Theresa. Recently, Mary
Eisenhower, on behalf of People to People Student Ambassador
Programs, joined that list.
The presentation was held inside the beautiful city hall of Assisi
that dates back to the 12th century. The president of the
International Center for Peace,
Gianfranco Costa, praised Student Ambassador Programs for sending
students to build bonds and understanding among the youth of
countries all over the globe. Ms. Eisenhower was knighted with a
purple robe embroidered with the words, “Cavaleri di
Pace.” The title of “Knight for Peace” extends for one thousand
years and is passed on to all of her descendents.
Student Ambassadors from two delegations were in Assisi at the time
and had the privilege of being present during the ceremony. When
they learned that Ms. Eisenhower was sitting in the same chair in
which Mother Theresa sat when she received the award, they were
touched; some had tears in their eyes.
People to People Student Ambassador Programs is honored by this
recognition and will continue to work toward our founding mission of
world peace through understanding.
