Michael Bloomberg, 2014 Genesis Prize Laureate
On October 21, 2013, The Genesis Prize Foundation announced New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg as the inaugural Genesis Prize Laureate.
Mayor Bloomberg was recognized for his achievements as one of the most innovative, disruptive, and generous philanthropists in the world, his strong convictions and actions as mayor of New York City, and his business acumen.
Michael Bloomberg, Inaugural Genesis Prize Laureate
“I am deeply honored to be the first recipient of the Genesis Prize. Many years ago, my parents instilled in me Jewish values and ethics that I have carried with me throughout my life, and which have guided every aspect of my work in business, government, and philanthropy. The Genesis Prize embraces and promotes those same values and ethics - a common thread among the Jewish people worldwide that has helped move humankind forward for centuries.”
Yuli Edelstein, Speaker of the Knesset
“Mayor Bloomberg’s selection as the first Genesis Prize Laureate reflects his track record of outstanding public service and his role as one of the world’s greatest philanthropists. As a visionary entrepreneur, he has transformed the way the world conducts business and created a more open and better informed world. Mayor Bloomberg has successfully advanced practical solutions to key global issues that range from education and public health to the environment and global innovation. He has also been outspoken in his support of Israel and exhibits a great sense of pride in his Jewish identity and heritage.”
Stan Polovets, Co-Founder and Chairman, The Genesis Prize Foundation
“We aspire for the Genesis Prize to have the same level of recognition and prestige as the leading prizes of the world, such as the Nobels, the Pulitzers, and MacArthur Awards. With Mayor Bloomberg as our inaugural laureate, we are well on our way to achieving this objective.“
Elie Wiesel, Nobel Prize Laureate
“Mayor Michael Bloomberg sets a very high bar as the first recipient of the Genesis Prize. It is a great honor for the entire Jewish people to celebrate his achievements, his commitment to improving the world, and in particular his city: New York. His pursuit of the agenda centered on health, innovation and social justice has been unwavering. We are certain that his selection as the recipient of the Genesis Prize will serve as an inspiration to young Jews and others across the globe.“
Mayor Bloomberg directed the $1 million prize to a social entrepreneurship competition for young adults, the Genesis Generation Challenge.