2007 VAN FLEET AWARD

Houghton and Doreen Freeman

THE FREEMAN FOUNDATION

Citation

To properly convey the scope, magnitude and impact of the Freeman Foundation’s charitable contributions, The Korea Society can only seek to act as a voice for the countless scholars, students, scientists, colleges, universities and research institutions scattered all over the United States and Asia that have been beneficiaries of the great generosity of the Freeman family.

Through their deep knowledge of Asia, their energy and strong sense of discernment, Houghton and Doreen Freeman have built an extraordinary network of beneficent exchanges that have a truly global impact. Their efforts have been focused consistently on the Foundation’s basic goals for improved relations between the U.S. and Asia, which were initially articulated by Houghton’s father Mansfield Freeman: “to strengthen the bonds of friendship, to develop greater appreciation and to stimulate an exchange of ideas.”

The Korea Society has been generously supported by the Freeman Foundation since 1993. This sustained support has played an integral role in the development of our most significant programs. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, it is entirely appropriate to thank the Freeman family for what they have done for us, as well as for what they have done for countless others seeking to strengthen international understanding between Asia and the United States.

General James A. Van Fleet, for whom this award is named, saw Korea in its darkest hour. Yet he sensed the latent potential of Korea and its people, and he envisioned what the relations between the United States and Korea could become with greater support and understanding. The Freeman family, in countless ways, has contributed magnificently to the development of U.S.–Korea relations as well as to Americans’ understanding of Asia as a whole. In doing so, they have provided all of us with an important and inspiring legacy.

For all of these contributions, I am delighted to present the James A. Van Fleet Award to Houghton and Doreen Freeman.

Photograph © 2006, Paul Rogers, Stowe, VT