Voice of Conscience Award Winners


The Aetna Voice of Conscience Award was established to honor the late Arthur R. Ashe, Jr. -- tennis great and citizen of the world -- who served on the Aetna board of directors for over a decade and who was Chairman of the Aetna Foundation at the time of his passing in 1993. In his autobiography, "Days of Grace," Mr. Ashe referred to his involvement as an Aetna Board member as the single most satisfying and fascinating involvement since his retirement from tennis, outside of his family. The award has been our effort since to both honor this national and international figure, an important member of the Aetna family, while paying tribute to those who reflect the same humanitarian ideals that Arthur Ashe held. Presented annually, the award recognizes those, both Aetna employees and national figures, who have distinguished themselves by their own achievements in education, equality, advancing human rights and civic leadership.

Characteristics of the award recipient include:

• Advancing human rights, opportunity and dignity
• Commitment to serve others, regardless of personal benefit
• Devotion to achieving humanitarian ideals
• Accomplishments in civil rights, education, health care and social equity
• Willingness to take risks for challenging causes
• Breaking boundaries across race, culture, class, faith and ethnicity

2008 Winner
The Aetna Employee Voice of Conscience Award winner for 2008 is Marie Alfano, case management nurse consultant, Cranbury, N.J.  Marie volunteers hundreds of hours a year to improve the lives of children. She has done everything from organizing toy drives to founding  Children at Heart, Inc., a non profit dedicated to making the dreams of children in need a reality. Local schools, government agencies, businesses and community organizations have all been drawn into her vision of helping those who are in need, and are her frequent collaborators and supporters. As a result of her boundless compassion and leadership, many who were otherwise lacking, now have the basic necessities in life including electricity, clothing and medical equipment. Like Arthur Ashe, Marie is a powerful example of how one person can make a meaningful difference.

2005 Winner
In 2005, Aetna recognized Mrs. Rosalynn Carter, former First Lady and Founder of The Carter Center for her efforts to bring attention to mental health issues, reduce the stigma that still prevents many from receiving proper care and improve services to those afflicted with mental illness.

• Learn more about past Voice of Conscience Award winners.
• Learn more about Arthur Ashe at www.arthurashe.org