Celebrated CBS News Correspondent Steve Hartman is set to receive the esteemed 2026 Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award, an accolade that honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional character and serve as role models. This award, presented by The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, celebrates a commitment to civility and character development, values championed by former Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray and his wife, Billie Ray.
Hartman is renowned for his “On the Road” segment on CBS News, which features heartwarming stories of remarkable individuals. These segments are widely used in classrooms globally to impart lessons in kindness and character. In response to the educational challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hartman, alongside his children, initiated the “Kindness 101” web series in 2020. This series, now a part of “CBS Mornings,” shares narratives of kindness and has been adopted by over 100,000 educators worldwide.
In a collaborative effort with CBS News, Drake University launched a series of educational videos in 2024 under The Ray Center’s CHARACTER COUNTS! initiative. These resources, available at no cost on Kindness101.com, aim to promote character and kindness among K-12 students worldwide.
Drake University President Marty Martin remarked, “Steve Hartman lives the values of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award, and we are incredibly proud to honor him with this distinction. He chooses to use his influence as an acclaimed broadcast journalist to inspire millions of students to live with exemplary character and integrity. I can’t think of a more meaningful pursuit.”
Expressing his gratitude, Hartman stated, “I am honored. I am humbled. I am flattered beyond words. I have spent my career reporting on people who are ‘pillars of character.’ I would never put myself in that category. But I will do my best to accept this award with grace.”
The award ceremony will take place on April 17 at The Ray Center’s All-Star Evening in West Des Moines. This event, supported by Hy-Vee, aids The Ray Center’s initiatives, including CHARACTER COUNTS! Notable past recipients of the award include Norman Borlaug, Hayden Fry, Dan Gable, Fred Hoiberg, Shawn Johnson, Dr. Peggy Whitson, and Lisa Bluder.
For additional details about An All-Star Evening and ticket purchases, visit AllStarEvening.org.
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