Last Thursday evening, the American University Alumni Association Awards ceremony was electrified by Jan Du Plain’s moving and spirited acceptance speech. The event held at the Washington College of Law, Claudio Grossman Hall, graced by notable figures, celebrated outstanding achievements and the spirit of the community.
Earlier that same day, Jan was honored with the Torch Bearer Award from The Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
She acknowledged the excellence of the previous speakers and expressed her gratitude for those who supported her nomination. Special thanks were given to her friend, Dr. Gail Humphries for nominating her, and to Elizabeth Hagedorn and Amy Austin, whose supportive letters were essential in her recognition.
Reflecting on her American University days, Du Plain shared her astonishment and pride at being honored with a lifetime achievement award. “In fact, when they called, I thought this was my Nobel Peace Prize,” she joked.
Du Plain expressed her lifelong mission of uniting people, a goal she has tirelessly pursued through her public relations endeavors. “My true passion is bringing people together,” she vehemently stated.
Throughout her address, Du Plain’s sincerity and authenticity were evident, reflecting the values that have steered her career. She noted the importance of embracing diversity and international experiences; values inspired by her father’s adventurous spirit and nurtured by the dynamic community at American University.
Jan Du Plain affectionately referred to her support network as her “village,” comprising individuals whose support and contributions have been instrumental in her life and career. Amongst those she acknowledged during her acceptance speech were Betsy Fischer Martin, Executive Director of AU’s Women and Politics Institute; Allison McKithen, Executive Director of RRBITC; H.E. Sonia Guzman, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic; Congresswoman Constance Morello (Ret-Md); Dennis Wholey, PBS TV Talk Show host; Anne Abernathy, Olympian known as “Grandma Luge”; Monia Zgarni, Chief of Staff, Du Plain Global Enterprises; Caroline Croft, AU Diplomat in Residence; Jorge Juvinel, President of JJ Construction; Gerry Eitner, Founder of Communities of Peace “Mother Earth” project; and Deb Leopold, social media contributor.
Others include Dr. Michael Weitz, Optometrist; H.E. Catalina Crespo Sancho, Ambassador of Costa Rica; H.E. Cisse Mint Cheikh Ould Boide, Ambassador of Mauritania; Mauri Earle, Church of Jesus Christ / PDI/POA board member; Elizabeth Torres, Founder of WGPCS; Robin Leeds, President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts; Barbara Hawthorn, President of Hawthorn Interior Design; Jane Pennewell, Fashion Image consultant; Rafael Javadov, renowned violinist; Patricia McDougall, Diplomatic photographer; Victor Gotevbe and Pamela Johnson, representatives of Diplomatic Watch Magazine.
Du Plain concluded her speech with an inspiring quote that reflects her outlook on life and purpose: “Always remember, you are braver than you believe, you are stronger than you seem, and you are smarter than you think, and you are loved more than you know.” With these words, she left the audience feeling inspired and uplifted.
