« Return to Prior Years start page


Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in developing America's approach to foreign relations. His years abroad in London and Paris established a model for our nation.
On January 18, 2013, Celebration! Benjamin Franklin, Founder presented the Franklin Founders Award to Gov. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. in recognition of the tremendous work he has done as an American diplomat. Governor Huntsman is the former ambassador to China and Singapore, a former governor of Utah and was a Republican presidential candidate.
Governor Huntsman's diplomatic finesse and strong advocacy for American interests abroad strengthened the U.S. relationship with China, and he continues to study and write about American/Chinese relations. He is currently a Distinguished Fellow at the Brookings Institution and the chairman of the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
The day's celebration included a free morning seminar on American Diplomacy, featuring:
A procession up 5th Street in Philadelphia to Dr. Franklin's grave was followed by the luncheon honoring Gov. Huntsman.