This award honors the outstanding achievement of a single community leader in South Florida. Recipients have made significant contribution to the region, demonstrating a deep love and commitment to South Florida as the best possible place in which to live, work and play.

The award takes its name from a live broadcast from Downtown Miami on Thursday, December 31, 1981. The late WTVJ Vice President and News Director, Ralph Renick delivered his famous editorial detailing the irresistible force of a phenomenon described as “Sand in Your Shoes”.

Watch the speech here.

Recipients

• David Lawrence, 2021
• Penny Shaffer, 2020
• Tony Argiz, 2019
• Brian E. Keeley, 2018
• Carlos A. Migoya, 2017
• Patricia & Dr. Phillip Frost, 2016
• Harve A. Mogul, 2015
• Donna E. Shalala, 2014
• Gloria & Emilio Estefan, 2013
• Eduardo J. Padrón, 2012
• Peter J. Dolara, 2011
• Dr. Modesto A. Maidique, 2010
• Adolfo Henriques, 2009
• Sherwood M. “Woody” Weiser, 2008
• Jayne & Leonard Abess, 2007
• Jorge Pérez, 2006
• Carlos J. Arboleya, Sr., 2005
• William O. Cullom, 2004
• Armando Codina, 2003
• Sue & Leonard Miller, 2001
• Edward T. Foote II, 2000
• Sister Jeanne O’Laughlin, 1999
• Robert H. Traurig, 1997
• Jim Batten, 1995
• Congressman Dante Fascell, 1994
• Congressman William Lehman, 1993
• M. Anthony Burns, 1991
• Martin Fine, 1990
• Ted Hoepner, Jr., 1989
• R. Ray Goode, 1988
• & Leslie Pantin, Sr. (posthumously)
• Dr. Luis Botifoll, 1987
• Bill Colson, 1986
• Hank Meyer, 1985
• Charles I. Babcock, Jr., 1984
• Alvah H. Chapman, Jr., 1983
• Harry Hood Bassett, 1982
• Lester Freeman, 1981