Orem-Radio and television personality Glenn Beck became the first recipient of the Pioneer in Leadership Award, Saturday. It was presented by the Utah Valley chapter of the Brigham Young University Management Society to honor Beck's pioneer spirit of courage in adversity and integrity in leadership.

Beck was chosen for the award not for the particular views he holds, but rather for his convictions of principle and the hope and inspiration his stories yield, said Brigham Young University Management Society president Tim Herrerra.

"I think that every day on the radio Glenn Beck teaches absolute truth in the language of the millions of people who hear him," said Bob Lonsberry, morning host of 570 KNRS Talk Radio.

Upon receiving the award Beck said, "I want to say thank you for this, every time I come here I am amazed... When I get to this side of the mountains I feel at home."

During the award ceremony John Valentine, president of the Utah State Senate read a letter written by Governor John M. Huntsman Jr., which read in part, "It is my pleasure to honor Mr. Glenn Beck for his efforts as a pioneering broadcaster while displaying his personal brand of matter-of-fact pragmatism, Glenn serves as an example of one who rises above life's challenges and chooses to stand with courage from all that he believes."

Following the awards ceremony Beck presented a speech about the power of choice, hope and integrity to an enthused audience of about 1,600 people.

He spoke of the lack of civic action in the United States. "Our willingness to stand by is crippling our country," Beck said. "One person can make a difference, one person can affect change, and you are that person."

Beck also shared his opinions on the current economic crisis, and the government's bailout plan. "We bought into the lie that we can have it all...it's like we're trying to cure cancer with cancer, it's not a good idea. It's not going to work!"

Beck closed his comments by inviting Utahns and Americans alike to hope for better times. "Never lose hope. We're going to survive. Beyond that we are going to thrive, we are going to pull ourselves back up and we will be America!"



Copyright Brigham Young University 27 Oct 2008