For Immediate Release                                           contact:       Mary Rappaport

January 29, 2009                                                                                  202-467-8714

                                                                                                            mrappaport@ncvc.org

Kenneth Feinberg Honored
byNational Center for Victims of Crime

Washington, DC---The National Center for Victims of Crime, the nation's leading resource and advocacy organization for crime victims, yesterday presented its 2009 Distinguished Service Award for service to crime victims to Kenneth Feinberg, managing partner and founder of the Feinberg Group, at the University Club in Washington, DC.

Mr. Feinberg served pro bono as Special Master of the September 11^th Victim Compensation Fund, overseeing the awarding of benefits to victims and bringing dignity and decency to a painful task.  He also administered the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund established by the Virginia Tech Foundation in the aftermath of the Virginia Tech shootings.  Mr. Feinberg brought to both roles an intense commitment to victims, a determination to honor their wishes, and a deep respect for their suffering.

"Ken Feinberg helped lead and define our nation's response to these tragedies," said Mary Lou Leary, executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime.  "He set an inspired standard for service to victims, and we proudly honor his generous work."

A group of distinguished speakers praised Feinberg's service to the nation and their communities.  White House Counsel Gregory Craig, former U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft, Virginia Tech President Charles Steger, and National Center for Victims of Crime President David Austern lauded Feinberg's energy, generosity, endurance, compassion, and respect for victims of crime.  Feinberg's wisdom, patience, and willing stewardship, they agreed, have awed his colleagues while serving the public good.

"Ken Feinberg has advanced the cause of justice for our nation and for thousands of victims of crime," said Mary Lou Leary. "We are honored to present to him the National Center for Victims of Crime's first Distinguished Service Award."

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The National Center for Victims of Crime is dedicated to forging a national commitment to help victims of crime rebuild their lives.  Through its National Crime Victim Helpline (1-800-FYI-CALL), the National Center helps victims understand the impact of crime and provides practical information about crime and victimization, skilled advocacy in the criminal justice and social service systems, and referrals to local community resources.