This award is named in honor and in memory of the life and contributions of one of Guilford County’s, and North Carolina’s, most remarkable citizens – Hubert B. Humphrey, Jr. Hugh Humphrey was an exceptional lawyer, civic leader and public servant, as demonstrated by earning the accolade as one of the Best Lawyers in America; having served in both the NC House and Senate; and having been a member and chair of both the Board of Trustees at Wake Forest University and UNC-Greensboro.

The Humphrey Award recognizes a school that designs and implements “a comprehensive school improvement plan that supports collaboration and leads toward improved student achievement.” A selection committee reviews specific academic metrics and considers how each school plans to engage the community, serve diverse student populations, and improve student outcomes. At the forefront of the partnership is the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, which manages the endowment provided by the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation and oversees the Award selection and recognition process.