Terry and Sandy Strine Received Freedom Award
The Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation honored the pair for their significant contributions to Delaware leadership development.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Awards
Live Poll
Do you believe local leadership development programs effectively strengthen your community?
Terry and Sandy Strine were presented with the 2026 Pete du Pont Freedom Award on September 24. The ceremony at the Hotel du Pont recognized their commitment to advancing private enterprise through mentorship and leadership training.
Why it matters
The award acknowledges the Strines' two decades of investment in Delaware residents, specifically through their efforts to cultivate emerging leaders across various industries.
The award recognizes the Strines' two decades of leadership investment, including their role in guiding nearly 400 graduates of the Leadership Delaware Inc. Fellowship Program.
The players
Terry and Sandy Strine
The couple co-founded Leadership Delaware Inc. and have dedicated nearly two decades to developing leaders in the state.
Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation
This organization promotes private enterprise and leadership, notably presenting an annual award to individuals who advance those values.
Leadership Delaware Inc.
Founded in 2008, this fellowship organization connects rising leaders with experienced industry mentors.
The details
Terry and Sandy Strine co-founded Leadership Delaware Inc. in 2008 alongside Gov. Pete du Pont to bridge the gap between emerging and established professionals. The organization provides fellows with critical access to cross-industry networks, experiences, and knowledge designed to sharpen leadership effectiveness.
Timeline
The Strines co-founded Leadership Delaware Inc. in 2008.
The award ceremony took place on September 24, 2026.
Roadmap
This ceremony follows the established pattern of the Pete du Pont Freedom Award in honoring local leaders who strengthen private enterprise. It marks the latest installment of an annual tradition that highlights vital contributions to local economic and leadership development.
Residents and professionals interested in mentorship can engage with the Leadership Delaware Inc. pipeline to potentially participate in the fellowship program. The event underscores the importance of local networking and skill development for those looking to advance their careers in the region.
The takeaway
The recognition of the Strines highlights the long-term impact of investing in local human capital to drive institutional success. Aspiring leaders in the region can look to such models to understand how mentorship programs bridge the gap between career ambition and leadership efficacy.
Further reading
Learn more about local recognition by visiting the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Delaware Business Times.
Live Poll
Do you believe local leadership development programs effectively strengthen your community?
