Please Note: The In Character Prize for editorial and opinion writing about human virtues has been discontinued. We thank you for your interest and participation in the application process for the past two years and hope that you will continue to read and enjoy In Character.

The In Character Prize recognizes the editorial treatment of ordinary human virtues and their importance in the life of our society and country. Entries must have been published in a United States newspaper as an editorial or op-ed piece and should touch on the role of any of the human virtues in political or community life. The Prize recognizes writing about any of the commonly recognized human virtues — such as courage, generosity, humility, honesty, tenacity, modesty and the like. The Prize is a continuation of the mission of In Character itself as it illuminates the natures and power of the everyday virtues — and how these virtues shape our vision of the good life. The In Character Prize aims to foster a deeper appreciation of the virtues within our communities, our families, and ourselves.

The winner receives a $10,000 prize. Two honorable mentions are also awarded at $5,000 each. All finalists receive certificates documenting their accomplishment.

For more information:
John Templeton Foundation
Attn: In Character
300 Conshohocken State Road, Suite 500
West Conshohocken, PA 19428
610-941-2828 tel
610-825-1730 fax
info@incharacter.org
www.incharacter.org

Prize History

2007

Winner: Danny Heitman for "Daily thanksgiving is worth the work" published in The Christian Science Monitor.

Honorable Mention: Mark Douglas for "Give Me Patience Right Now" and "Waiting and Wanting" in The Sunday Paper and Wendy McElroy for "Recalling A Long Ago Act of Kindness" on FoxNews.com

2006

Winners: Professors Douglas A. Hicks and Jonathan B. Wight, University of Richmond, for “Disaster relief: What would Adam Smith do?” published in the Christian Science Monitor.

Honorable mentions: Mr. Jay D. Evensen, Deseret Morning News, for “Forgiveness has power to change future” and Mr. Stacey T. Warde, The Rogue Voice, for “A Homeless Woman’s Gift” published in The Tribune (San Luis Obispo).

Prizes