Former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, Alpha Chi Omega alumna and fellow Browns fan (I had to throw that in there) established an award in 2007 recognizing women leaders internationally and their work in effectively dealing with women's issues. This is the only Dept of State award for women alone. That's pretty amazing.   This is the link: http://www.state.gov/g/wi/iwoc/  

Secretary's International Women of Courage Award

To mark International Women's Day, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice established the annual International Women of Courage Award in March of 2007 to recognize women around the globe who have shown exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for women's rights and advancement.

This is the only Department of State award that pays tribute to emerging women leaders worldwide, and offers a unique opportunity to recognize those who work in the field of international women's issues.

http://2001-2009.state.gov/g/wi/rls/81473.htm

Secretary of State Confers the First International Women of Courage Awards

"Women of courage are standing up for freedom and human dignity, and the United States stands with them. We must not forget that the advance of women's rights and the advance of human liberty go hand in hand." 

-- Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, March 8, 2006

2007 Recipients: http://2001-2009.state.gov/g/wi/iwoc/c21757.htm

2008 Recipients: http://2001-2009.state.gov/g/wi/iwoc/103557.htm

2009 Recipients: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2009/03/120070.htm