WASHINGTON, D.C., September 24, 2002-The American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL) honored Peace Corps Director Gaddi H. Vasquez with their Gary L. McPherson Distinguished Alumni Award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. today.

The Award, named for the late Gary L. McPherson, recognizes ACYPL alumni who have distinguished themselves in their leadership abilities in their career and community. The first recipients of the Award were the Honorable William J. Hybl, U.S. Representative to the United Nations General Assembly and the Honorable Christine Weason, democratic State Representative from Arizona.
Vasquez was honored for his service at the city, county, state and federal levels of government and his commitment to ACYPL. He was also recognized for his work and community service over the last 22 years and his achievement as a true role model and leader for young people.

The American Council of Young Political Leaders was formed in 1966 as a nonprofit bipartisan educational exchange organization to enhance foreign policy understanding and exposure among rising young American political leaders and their counterparts around the world. The program achieves its goals through a broad range of practical education programs, including international exchanges, foreign policy and democracy conferences, and election study programs.

Since 1961, more than 165,000 Volunteers have served in the Peace Corps, working in such diverse fields as agriculture, small business and community development, education, environmental conservation, healthcare and information technology. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a two-year commitment.