[4] This award, created at the centennial observance of Andrew Carnegie’s official career as a philanthropist, is given to one or more individuals who have dedicated their private wealth to the public good.
The Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy honors Mr. Carnegie’s philanthropic achievements by recognizing the achievements of other philanthropists whose work: In addition to providing international recognition to such individuals, families, and institutions, the Medal awards ceremony and associated events stimulate what Mr. Carnegie called “the business of benevolence” by widening the circle of international donors and advancing his driving commitment to giving.
The medal is awarded to philanthropists with vision for bold, broad, and permanent change, a long track record of giving, and who have also made an impact on their chosen field or community.
Vartan Gregorian, President of Carnegie Corporation of New York, chairs the committee.
Each Medal recipient receives a bust of Andrew Carnegie — an original work of art cast in bronze and created specially for the award — and a bronze medal.