NIFI Board Chairman Dr. David Mathews was recently recognized for his lifetime of service to American democracy with the Freedom of Spirit Lifetime Achievement Award. The award "transcends political, economic, and religious views to honor exemplary individuals and institutions embodying that inner freedom that is the energizing source of human courage, creativity, and love in the world."

Dr. Mathews has also been named by the Alabama Humanities Alliance as a 2023 Alabama Humanities Fellow. The Alabama Humanities Alliance "serves as a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. AHA promotes impactful storytelling, lifelong learning, and civic engagement."

Dr. Mathews will be honored at the 2023 Alabama Colloquium this October. The event is open to the public and tickets are on sale now.