HOUSTON – (April 5, 2022) – The James A. Baker III Prize for Excellence in Leadership will be awarded to Austin Tice, an American journalist taken hostage in Syria nearly a decade ago, during an April 13 ceremony at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy. Marc and Debra Tice, his parents, will accept the honor on his behalf.
In May 2012, Tice traveled to Syria as a freelance journalist to report on the country’s ongoing civil war. Three months later, he was abducted at a roadside checkpoint near Damascus. After six weeks, a video emerged showing a blindfolded Tice detained by unidentified armed men. In the nearly 10 years since, no one has claimed responsibility for his capture.
The Tice family, the United States government and others believe Tice is alive and that the Syrian government is best able to assist with his secure release and safe return. However, three different presidential administrations have been unsuccessful at securing his freedom.
The Baker Institute will honor Tice for his courage and service. His work exemplifies the values of the Baker Prize, which recognizes renowned individuals for outstanding achievements in government, business, science, education or philanthropy.
The prize is awarded to those who exemplify the vision of building “a bridge between the world of ideas and the world of action,” as conceived by former Secretary of State James A. Baker III when he established the Baker Institute. This event marks the eighth time the award has been conferred in the institute’s 28-year history.
Tice is the recipient of the 2012 George Polk Award for War Reporting, the 2012 McClatchy Newspapers President’s Award and the 2015 National Press Club John Aubuchon Freedom of the Press Award. He is a veteran of the Marine Corps and a graduate of Georgetown University.
What: Baker Institute event, “Baker Prize for Excellence in Leadership: Austin Bennett Tice.”
When: Wed., April 13, 6-7:30 p.m. CDT. The program begins at approximately 7 p.m., preceded by a reception at 6 p.m.
Who: Baker Institute Director Edward P. Djerejian will provide welcoming remarks, followed by the presentation of the prize by former Secretary of State and Baker Institute Honorary Chair James A. Baker III. Marc and Debra Tice will accept the award on behalf of their son and deliver remarks.
Where: This on-campus event is free, but registration is required.