David M. Beasley to receive 2025 Global Vision Award

David M. Beasley is a former SC Governor and earned the Nobel Peace Prize for his work as Executive Director of the World Food Programme 

The Columbia World Affairs Council announced former Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme and South Carolina Governor David M. Beasley as the 2025 Global Vision Award recipient. Beasley served as Governor from 1995 to 1999.

“This is an amazing honor, especially as recognition from the State I that love, serve, and call home,” said Beasley, whose post-Governorship included six years as Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme. “The initiative to fight global hunger is more relevant than ever, and the continued acknowledgement of South Carolina as a driving force to end it is what remains so special to me.”

Beasley will be honored for his global impact at a black-tie gala on Monday, December 1, at the Columbia Museum of Art. This is the 32nd year the Columbia World Affairs Council has presented the award to a leader whose contributions have made a significant impact on projecting South Carolina globally.

Elected as the Governor of South Carolina in 1994, Beasley served until 1999 when he lost re-election due to his call for the removal of the Confederate flag. During his time in office, he focused on strengthening the state’s economy through the Enterprise Zone Act, which contributed to the creation of thousands of jobs and attracted billions in investments. Additionally, he reformed welfare programs and reduced government spending in order to provide tax breaks for property owners.

From 2017 to 2023, Beasley served as the Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the largest humanitarian organization that assists over 160 million people annually. Under Beasley’s leadership, the WFP won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, for its efforts to combat hunger and prevent food from being used as a weapon of war—an honor which Beasley accepted in person. Since stepping down, from the WFP, Beasley has continued his humanitarian work such as efforts to establish aid mechanisms for crisis regions such as Gaza, Sudan and other areas of grave need.

Established in 1993 to promote public awareness of global issues and international activities in the Midlands of South Carolina, the Columbia World Affairs Council showcases the State globally through international connections, educational programming, and innovative exchanges. Through our vast network of regional and international partners, the Council continues developing opportunities to increase economic prosperity and global education while advancing South Carolina as an international destination.  Additionally, the Council administers the sister city program for the City of Columbia and is a member of the Washington-based World Affairs Councils of America and Global Ties U.S.

The Global Vision Award was established in 1994, and the first recipient was Governor Carroll A. Campbell. The 2024 Global Vision Award was given to the University of South Carolina’s International Business Programs at the Darla Moore School of Business, honoring Dr. William R. Folks Jr., Dr. Kendall Roth, and former Dean of the Business School, James F. Kane.

For more information, please visit columbiaworldaffairs.org.