In a Washington D.C. ceremony today at FBI Headquarters, Director Robert S. Mueller, III recognized the recipients of the 2008 Director’s Community Leadership Award. These leaders, selected by their area FBI field office, have demonstrated outstanding contributions to their local communities through service. Included among the awardees was Erika Binger of Minneapolis for her work as Chair of the Board of Directors of the McKnight Foundation during 2008, a position she held since 2004. Under her leadership, the McKnight Foundation, a philanthropic charitable organization, has directly enhanced the quality of life in communities throughout Minnesota through encouragement, coalition building, and financial support of programs aimed at narrowing education gaps for disadvantaged children. These programs ultimately provide local children with opportunities to become compassionate and productive citizens, and instill with them the inspiration to set and achieve goals. In addition to her work with the McKnight Foundation, Ms. Binger has a diverse background in mentoring programs and youth athletics. She serves on an advisory committee for Bolder Options, a mentoring program that aims to redirect and change youth behavior through running and biking. She also helped create the Minnesota Coalition for Adolescent Females, coached girl’s basketball and swimming, has tutored at North High School, and developed a triathlon program for inner-city youth.

“Whatever the motivation – an unfilled need, a tragic occurrence, a desire to give back – these are people who make things happen and enlist others in their cause,” said Director Mueller. “They are activists who have earned their prestige through good works.”

Ralph S. Boelter, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Minneapolis office attended the ceremony. “The Minneapolis Division is proud of Erika and the work of the McKnight Foundation. She embodies the spirit of community service that makes the Twin Cities such a great place to live and work.”