American Spirit Awards

American Spirit Awards

May 23–24, 2024
presented by Hancock Whitney

American Spirit Awards

The American Spirit Awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose work reflects the values and spirit of those who served our country during the World War II years. We honor those who inspire others through their own acts of courage, sacrifice, initiative, and generosity—particularly in the areas of leadership, service to country or community, and education.

The Billy Michal Student Leadership Award is presented annually to one student from each state and the District of Columbia who demonstrates the American spirit in his or her community. The values of leadership, teamwork, tolerance, creativity, and perseverance can and should be learned and lived by all Americans regardless of age.

Proceeds from the American Spirit Awards support educational programming at The National WWII Museum—including the ongoing development of classroom materials and professional-development opportunities for teachers in schools across the country, as well as online experiences that bring the Museum and its resources to students around the world.

Event Details

THURSDAY, May 23, 2024
American Spirit Awards Recipient and Patron Reception
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Louisiana Memorial Pavilion
Cocktail Attire

Guests will experience a taste of New Orleans during this elegant jazz reception as we toast the American Spirit Award recipients.

FRIDAY, May 24, 2024
American Spirit Awards Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center
Business Attire

Leading through example is a hallmark of the Museum’s honorees, and at the Luncheon and Leadership Forum, recipients will share their experiences with 51 student leaders from throughout the country, offering motivating advice to tomorrow’s leaders.

American Spirit Awards Gala
Presented by Hancock Whitney
6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center
Formal Attire

Join us for an elegant black–tie gala on a night that will truly inspire. Following a three–course dinner, the Museum will present its highest honor to the deserving Americans who inspire greatness in all of us.

For more information, contact us at fundraisingevents@nationalww2museum.org.

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American Spirit Award Recipients

The American Spirit Award recognizes individuals who best exemplify the outstanding qualities of the American spirit, including teamwork, optimism, courage, and sacrifice, and who inspire the exploration and expression of these values through their own life and work.


2024 American Spirit Award Recipients will be announced in March 2024

THE BILLY MICHAL STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

 

When six-year-old Billy Michal from Zimmerman, Louisiana, helped his one-room school win a statewide scrap metal collection contest during World War II, he understood that every citizen—no matter how small—could contribute to our victory in the war. His example, and the actions of millions of other students on the Home Front, reminds us that service to country and community helps create active, engaged citizens. Through this award, the Museum promotes these values to students nationwide and honors those who exemplify them.

The 2024 Billy Michal Student Leadership Award Recipients will be announced in Spring 2024

Ticket and Sponsorship Information

Interested in becoming a sponsor for this year’s event? Contact Director of Development Missie Lindsey at (504) 528-1944 ext. 321 or missie.lindsey@nationalww2museum.org

 

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS

$2,500 Individual Ticket

One ticket purchased for each of the following American Spirit Awards events:

  • The American Spirit Awards Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum (Friday, May 24, 2024)
  • The American Spirit Awards Gala (Friday, May 24, 2024)

$1,500 Patriots Circle Member Ticket*

One ticket purchased for each of the following American Spirit Awards events:

  • The American Spirit Awards Billy Michal Student Leadership Forum (Friday, May 24, 2024)
  • The American Spirit Awards Gala (Friday, May 24, 2024)

*Active Patriots Circle Membership required

Purchase Tickets

Hotel Information

For your convenience, the Museum has reserved a room block at The Higgins Hotel & Conference Center for guests of the American Spirit Awards program. To book your room, simply follow these directions. A limited quantity of rooms is available at a discounted rate.

Book Your Room

2024 AMERICAN SPIRIT AWARDS SPONSORS

“World War II united the patriotism, resilience, and humanity at the very heart of our nation in a resolute fight against tyranny. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans stands as an international tribute to the character and sacrifice that saved the world and to the core values that carry on the unmatched American spirit."

-John M. Hairston, President & CEO, Hancock Whitney

American Spirit Awards Presenting Sponsor