Recipients of Courage and Inspiration Awards

Filed Under Celebs, Gay Awards, Gay Events | August 13th, 2008 

Point Foundation NewsLOS ANGELES, CA (PRNewswire-USNewswire) — Point Foundation (Point), the largest scholarship-granting organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students of merit in the U.S., announced yesterday the recipients of its Courage and Inspiration awards.

Kristin Chenoweth, the Tony(R) Award-winning and Emmy(R) nominated actress who has made her mark in television, theatre and film in celebrated performances in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Wicked, The West Wing, Pushing Daisies and Running with Scissors, will receive the Point Courage Award; Wells Fargo will receive the Point Inspiration Award. Both awards will be presented at Point’s annual Los Angeles benefit, Point Honors, which will be held on September 13, 2008 at the Jim Henson Studios.

The Point Courage Award recognizes an individual who has advocated for the future of the LGBT community and lives with the vision that investing in today’s potential will produce a brighter tomorrow. The Point Inspiration Award recognizes a corporation or organization that champions respect and inclusion of the LGBT community and operates with the vision that investing in today’s potential will produce a brighter tomorrow.

“Not only does Kristin Chenoweth lead a phenomenally successful career as an actress and singer, she is an outspoken supporter of the LGBT community, often taking unpopular stances with conservative media outlets and it is with great pleasure that we will present her with the Point Courage Award,” said Jorge Valencia, executive director and chief executive officer of Point Foundation. “As a public figure with the integrity to speak her convictions, she is an extremely visible source of hope and inspiration to our current and potential Point Scholars.”

“I am deeply honored to receive the Point Courage Award,” said Ms. Chenoweth. “Through Point Foundation’s scholarships and community, the organization empowers its scholars and gives them the support and encouragement to excel both academically and personally. The knowledge I gained as a student provided me with the essential tools to lay the foundation for my career. I believe deeply in the power of education and applaud all students who continue to pursue their educational goals in the face of obstacles.”

Students who are awarded the organization’s prestigious scholarships, known as Point Scholars, are selected through a rigorous and highly competitive process that requires a record of demonstrated leadership, scholastic achievement, community involvement and financial need. This year’s Los Angeles benefit celebrates the achievements of Point Scholars who are currently pursuing degrees at prestigious colleges and universities across the country.

“Wells Fargo has proven to be a leader in diversity and awareness, pioneering equal policies and benefits in the workplace in addition to supporting thousands of programs and organizations across the country servicing youth and the LGBT community,” said Jorge Valencia. “We are thrilled to present the Point Inspiration Award to this financial services company who, through their philanthropic contributions and day to day workplace policies, has continually made clear that LGBT lives are worth the investment.”

“Wells Fargo is honored to be recognized by the Point Foundation for our commitment to diversity,” said Shelley Freeman, Wells Fargo Los Angeles Metropolitan regional president. “Our vision and values encourage us to support the diversity of our team members, customers and communities. By acting on these principles, Wells Fargo has been able to successfully leverage diversity as a competitive advantage. We take great pride in our company’s commitment, and hope to continue serving as a diversity leader in our communities.”

Source: Point Foundation

Related Links:
- Kristin Chenoweth Online
- Wells Fargo