American Express Chairman Kenneth I. Chenault to be Honored by Ron Brown Scholar Program

Kenneth I. Chenault, chairman and chief executive officer of the American Express Company, will be honored at the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s American Journey Awards March 28 at the J.W. Marriott Hotel in Washington D.C.

The event honors outstanding Americans who exemplify the vision and transformative ideals of Ronald H. Brown, whose dedication to public service, community involvement and global leadership inspired generations of young African Americans to pursue higher education to reach their career goals and personal dreams.

Brown, who died in 1996, served as the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

“It is more than fitting that we celebrate the life and journey of Mr. Chenault,” stated Michael A. Mallory, RBSP President who leads the Program’s successful support and mentoring activities. “He has been an inspiration to young people across the nation fostering hope, urging action and demonstrating achievement in the African American community, as well as continuing to encourage others to challenge themselves and take initiative. His life embodies the spirit of the mission of the Ron Brown Scholar Program and serves as a model to which Ron Brown Scholars can aspire.”

Chenault joins an exclusive list of distinguished leaders honored since the inaugural American Journey Awards event in 2010. Dr. Wanda M. Austin, Dr. Regina M. Benjamin, Julian Bond, Earl G. Graves, Sr., and Anthony M. Pilaro are among those motivating change and inspiring dreams though education, leadership and service.

The 18th class of prospective Ron Brown Scholars will be presented at the gala in advance of selection weekend interviews. The American Journey Awards and other key fundraising events continue to support the Program’s theme “Fund A Dream” for a growing number of qualified African American high school seniors, helping them explore and reach their fullest potential.

The event opens with a VIP reception for sponsors, partners and friends of Ronald H. Brown, followed by a reception and dinner event hosted by