David Lawrence, Jr.
The American Red Cross of Greater Miami & The Keys honored David Lawrence, Jr., an advocate for early childhood education and former publisher of The Miami Herald, as the 2009 recipient of its prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award. Many leaders of the South Florida corporate community were among the more than 250 guests attending the event.
The Humanitarian Award is the highest distinction bestowed by the American Red Cross in Miami. The Award recognizes and honors an outstanding leader in the South Florida community. This individual possesses the qualities outlined by the International Red Cross Movement including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service and unity. Past Humanitarians include Paul DiMare; Sherwood (Woody) Weiser; Carlos de la Cruz, Sr.; Brian Keeley; Ambassador Sue M. Cobb; Armando Codina; Adolfo Henriques; Richard Fain; Dr. Pedro Jose Greer; the late Alvah Chapman, Jr.; and M. Anthony Burns.
Mr. Lawrence was recognized for his work to improve the lives of children in the state of Florida. He has been widely credited for playing a key role in the passage of a statewide constitutional amendment to provide high-quality pre-K education for all 4 year olds. He led the 2002 campaign for The Children’s Trust, a dedicated source of early intervention and prevention funding for children in Miami-Dade. He also chaired the Florida Partnership for School Readiness, an oversight board, and led the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Panel on Child Development.
