"I am humbled to receive such an honor which represents the distinguished ideals of such a heroic and inspirational leader as the Reverend Dr. King and to be included in the same esteemed company of the award's past recipients," said Andrews.  "Dr. King sounded a trumpet blast to renew America's promise, and his message of equality and humanity continues to inspire future generations from every walk of life.  It is our charge to continue to be a conduit for that message each day of our lives." 

Throughout his nine years in Congress, Rob Andrews has fought against discrimination and bias in every form.  A senior member of the Education and Labor Committee, Andrews led the effort to defeat an amendment to end Affirmative Action in higher education.  The Congressman has worked to improve education and make college and job training more affordable, in order to open the doors to economic opportunity for every American, regardless of their background.  One of the Congressman's first acts in Washington was a vote to pass the crucial Civil Rights Act of 1991.  Andrews has fought for legislation he wrote to impose tougher penalties on those convicted of hate crimes, and he worked to pass the Racial Justice Act as part of the 1994 Crime Law, to take account of statistics that prove racial discrimination in applying the death penalty.  Andrews fought against "English Only" legislation which proposed to discriminate against Americans who do not speak English, and he has led the fight to ratify an Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution.  

Past recipients of this prestigious award have been Anne E. Thompson, Chief Justice for the U.S. District Court of New Jersey, Honorable Susan Davis, U.S. Magistrate of New Jersey, Mr. Joshua W. Martin III, President & CEO of Bell Atlantic New Jersey and Senator Wayne R. Bryant, New Jersey State Senator for the 5th District.  The Rutgers University Black Law Students Association has dedicated its focus to influencing the legal community to bring about meaningful change in order to meet the needs of society as well as to facilitate academic excellence, enhance career opportunities and encourage community involvement.  The 60-student organization is a member of the National Black Law Student Association and the Student Bar Association.