In a surprising turn of events, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has announced that actress Eva Longoria and retired Navy admiral Bill McRaven are the recipients of his prestigious $50 million Courage and Civility Award each.
This annual prize, established by Bezos and his fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society. Previous recipients of the award include luminaries such as Van Jones, José Andrés, and Dolly Parton.
Longoria, renowned for her role in “Desperate Housewives,” has dedicated herself to empowering Latinas through education and entrepreneurship. Since founding the Eva Longoria Foundation in 2012, she has been steadfast in her mission to create better futures for Latina women and their families. Her foundation’s initiatives span across STEM education, parent engagement, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, all aimed at narrowing the opportunity gap faced by Latinas.
On the other hand, Admiral Bill McRaven, a retired four-star admiral and former chancellor of the University of Texas system, has been recognized for his leadership in supporting military personnel and their families. His initiatives, including the “Preservation of the Force & Family” program, prioritize the mental, spiritual, and physical well-being of service members and their loved ones. McRaven’s wife, Georgeann, has also played a significant role in supporting military families and wounded warriors throughout her career.
Bezos’ generous award will undoubtedly provide a substantial boost to Longoria and McRaven’s efforts in their respective fields, furthering their impact on society and underscoring the importance of courage and civility in today’s world.
