Hadrian Award
The Hadrian Award was inspired by the Roman Emperor Hadrian, a brilliant commander and administrator, and a great patron of the arts.
The emperor demonstrated a concern for the survival of outstanding artistic works and a desire to convey the standards embodied in these works to his contemporary world.
Each year, World Monuments Fund presents the Hadrian Award to an international leader who has advanced the understanding, appreciation, and preservation of the world’s art and architecture. WMF is proud to honor Kenneth Chenault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express, with the 2012 Hadrian Award.
Inaugurated in 2011, the Watch Award is presented annually to recognize individual advocacy, activism, and extraordinary achievement on behalf of heritage preservation. WMF proudly honors The Duke of Devonshire KCVO, CBE, DL with the 2012 Watch Award.
Both awards were presented at the 2012 Hadrian Award Gala in New York City on October 23, 2012.
Kenneth Chenault is a longtime, active supporter of historic preservation. His unwavering commitment to the world’s significant landmarks is articulated through American Express. Under his leadership, American Express has earned the distinction as one of the world’s leading corporate sponsors of historic preservation.
The Duke of Devonshire exemplifies the spirit of the Watch Award. Through his work overseeing the restoration of the magnificent Chatsworth House estate, he and The Duchess of Devonshire have ensured the long-term preservation of this vital part of British heritage for the benefit and enjoyment of the public and for future generations.