The award is presented on average bi-annually to an American who has demonstrated a long commitment to fostering U.S. relations with Iceland and to the building of bridges between the two countries.

The award was established in 1991 by U.S. Ambassador Charles Cobb and his wife Ambassador Sue Cobb in com­mem­oration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Iceland. The recipient is selected by the Board of Directors of the Fulbright Commission.

The winner of the 2023 Partnership Award is Robert Dell.

 

Read about past Partnership Award winners

When evaluating nominations, the Board looks at the following criteria:

  • Active role in promoting relations in one or more of the following areas: business, culture, education, environment, government, R&D, social/societal, volunteerism.
  • Demonstration of civic-mindedness, vision and commitment to shared values of Iceland and the U.S.
  • Has created opportunities
  • Has influenced change
  • Innovation
  • Leadership
  • Long-standing commitment
  • A role model for others
  • Tangible results/concrete achievements with long-term effect
Partnership sculpture. Picture taken by Jessica Harvey, Fulbright grantee 2011-2012