Peace Corps receives both the "Telly" and "Webby" Awards

Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Peace Corps' Office of Communications has been recognized nationally with two prestigious awards. The agency was awarded a Silver "Telly" for its 45th Anniversary video, and the 2007 "Webby" for the Coverdell World Wise Schools website.

Peace Corps Director Ron Tschetter said about the awards, "I'm proud of the many achievements of our communications team. The Peace Corps staff continues to effectively highlight the tremendous work of the Peace Corps Volunteers serving around the globe in new and award winning ways."

The Silver Telly, awarded to the Peace Corps for its 45th Anniversary video, is the highest award honoring outstanding local, regional, and cable TV commercials and programs, as well as video and film productions. The Telly Awards, founded in 1978 by David E. Carter, is a highly respected national and international competition that receives over 13,000 entries annually from all 50 states and many foreign countries. A judging panel of 27 accomplished industry professionals evaluates entries to recognize distinction in creative work and a high standard of merit.

Karen Chaput, the Peace Corps' video production manager said, "It was a thrill to receive the highest Telly award! It’s a prize for all of the Communications Office staff who worked hard in creating our 45th Anniversary video."

The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences designated the Peace Corps' Coverdell World Wise Schools website as an "Official Honoree" in the government category of the 11th Annual Webby Awards, also known as the "Online Oscars." The Webby Awards received more than 8,000 entries, and fewer than 15 percent of entrants receive this honor. The new World Wise Schools website, launched in September 2006, was developed by the Peace Corps Office of Communications in collaboration with the Peace Corps' Coverdell World Wise Schools Program and Threespot Media.

Sally Caldwell, Director of the Peace Corps Coverdell World Wise Schools Program said, "We feel honored to bring the world home to educators using the voice, pen, and image of Peace Corps Volunteers. This award from the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences is a further tribute to the service of our Peace Corps Volunteers."

Since 1961, more than 187,000 Peace Corps Volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries where Volunteers have served. Peace Corps Volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

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