Since 1988
An honor built to outlast its founders
Established in 1988 in honor of Harold W. McGraw, Jr., the Prize recognizes individuals whose work has advanced education. Since 2020 it has been administered by the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.
The Sculpture
A globe held in a single unbroken line
Each laureate receives a sculpture and a monetary award. The form is deliberately quiet: a world encircled by one continuous gesture, the way a great teacher's influence encircles a life without ever announcing itself.
The Prize has honored more than one hundred educational leaders across nearly four decades, in three categories that together span the whole arc of learning.
The Judging Process
Seven deliberate stages, one decision
- 01
Nomination
Colleagues, institutions, and the public submit candidates.
- 02
Review
Each dossier is read and verified against the Prize criteria.
- 03
Committee
An independent board of educators deliberates.
- 04
Selection
Three laureates are chosen — one in each category.
- 05
Announcement
The honor is shared with the world.
- 06
Celebration
Laureates are recognized at the annual ceremony.
- 07
Global Impact
The work is amplified through Penn GSE and its network.