ASHINGTON— On Saturday, Alabama Secretary of State Beth Chapman personally presented former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice with the Margaret Smith Chase American Democracy Award at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. This ceremony was in conjunction with the National Association of Secretaries of State winter meeting where Secretary Chapman, as current President of the organization, has been presiding this week. The award is given by NASS each year to recognize ‘acts of political courage, uncommon character, and selfless action in the realm of public service.’
“I am overjoyed to honor a fellow native Alabamian with this award,” said Chapman. “Dr. Rice showed great strength and determination while serving as America’s chief diplomat and continues to do so in academia.” Chapman was also the member who nominated Rice for the award.
Since leaving her government post, Dr. Rice has returned to her position as Professor of Political Science at Stanford University.