The annual Luminary Award is a signature event of the World Affairs Council of Connecticut. It honors one or more individuals or an organization from Connecticut that has profoundly influenced global affairs, with a strong emphasis on contributions to the overall betterment of the world.
LUMINARY AWARD 2020
For the first time ever, the Luminary Award joined forces with the Global Security Forum 2020 for one powerful evening. On Thursday, October 1, we had the honor of celebrating the local, national, and global leadership of Paul “Buddy” Bucha, Recipient of the Medal of Honor. Learn more.
Paul Bucha
LUMINARY AWARD LEGACY
Luminary Awardee Highlight: Stanley Black & Decker
Headquartered here in Connecticut, Stanley Black & Decker is committed to being a global force for good. Through pioneering research, technical innovation, and breakthrough manufacturing, Stanley Black & Decker is leading the world in Industry 4.0 for the betterment and advancement of our global community.
PAST LUMINARIES
2020
Paul “Buddy” Bucha
Keynote Speakers Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin; General David Petraeus (U.S. Army, Ret.); and General Joseph Votel (U.S. Army, Ret.)
2019
Stanley Black & Decker
2018
Yale Cancer Center
2017
United Technologies, Inc.
Keynote Speaker Bob Ballard, discoverer of the Titanic and renowned Ocean Explorer
2016
Aerospace Components Manufacturers
Keynote Speaker Col. (ret) Mark Tillman, former commander of Air Force One
2015
Peter G. Kelly, Esq.
Keynote Speaker Senator Mark Warner
2014
AmeriCares
Keynote Speaker Ambassador Robert Ford
2013
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Keynote Speaker Colonel Jack Jacobs
2012
The Norwegian Nobel Committee
Keynote Speaker Geir Lundestad, Permanent Secretary to the Norwegian Nobel Committee and Director of the Nobel Institute
2011
Hole in the Wall Camp Association
Keynote Speaker Melissa Newman
2010
Dr. Henry Kissinger, Former Secretary of State
2009
General David Petraeus
2008
ESPN International
Keynote Speaker Chris Berman
2007
Connecticut’s Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans
Keynote Speaker General Eric Shinseki
2006
Save the Children
Keynote Speaker Cokie Roberts
2005
University of CT UNESCO Chair
Keynote Speaker President Mary Robinson, first female president of Ireland
2004
Harry Jack Gray, former Chairman of UTC
Keynote Speaker The Honorable Alexander Haig
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