Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter will receive the 2017 Ivan Allen Jr. Prize for Social Courage, Georgia Institute of Technology President G.P. Peterson announced today.

The former president and first lady are being jointly recognized for their partnership in a courageous collaboration to improve human rights and alleviate suffering around the world. Over the span of more than four decades their work has focused on improving health, preventing and resolving conflicts and enhancing freedom and democracy.

They are the first couple to receive the award, which recognizes those who demonstrate leadership to improve the human condition despite personal risks and challenges.

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