2020 Torch Award Winners:
Quakertown Superintendent William Harner
The World Affairs Council of Harrisburg honors Dr. Harner for his enlightened understanding of global engagement in education. Dr. Harner’s support of educating students in international affairs and his appreciations of cultural diversity makes him a gifted educator. Dr. Harner has consistently supported youth programs of the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg and our efforts to engage our community in better understanding the world.
Cumberland Valley Superintendent David Christopher 
The World Affairs Council of Harrisburg honors Dr. Christopher for his efforts to reduce racial and ethnic tensions in the Cumberland Valley School District and address concerns of minority parents whose children reported repeated incidents of harassment and abuse.
Dr. Nirmal Joshi – 
Dr. Joshi is Medical Director of Nittany Health and a strong advocate for public health and safety. The World Affairs Council of Harrisburg is honoring Dr. Joshi for his efforts to educate our community on the coronavirus and to provide sound, scientific information on how to prevent infection. He is a dedicated community health leader who is an advocate for disadvantaged communities.
The Rev. Dr. James Jackson 
The Rev. Dr. James James is being honored for his support of interfaith cooperation in Harrisburg and surrounding areas. As Pastor of Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church, he has supported inter-religious dialogue and provided a venue for numerous community events and civic forums. He and the members of Goodwin Memorial Baptist Church are setting an example of interfaith cooperation and harmony in our community.
Special Young Leadership Torch Awards: 
Young Representatives of bi-partisan cooperation and collegiality. They have regularly participated in Council events on politics and youth, modeling respectful, civil dialogue for the next generation of leadership.
Shavonnia Corbin-Johnson, Cole Davis Goodman, Abbey Haslam and Matthew Krupp
Young Representatives of bi-partisan cooperation and collegiality
They have regularly participated in Council events on politics and youth, modeling respectful, civil dialogue for the next generation of leadership.
