Philip Caruso '08
Read about Caruso in August, 2022 update:
"In
the Wake of War, Alum Works to Ensure There’s ‘No One Left Behind’"
Striving “to make a difference on behalf of the U.S. abroad"
Mike Newman presenting a 2008 JFK Award to Philip Caruso
While in Istanbul, Turkey, as part of a summer Air Force cultural
immersion program, Philip Caruso '08, who is originally from Rochester,
NY, became aware of the negative image the U.S. had acquired in the
Middle East. This helped him formulate his long-term goal of striving
“to make a difference on behalf of the U.S. abroad.” Phil has come to
see this aim, “not so much as a choice but a personal requirement” – a
way of combining his reservist commitments as an ROTC scholar with the
opportunity to be an unofficial ambassador for the United Stages and
improve foreign relations as he pursues a career in the military.
A Materials Science and Engineering major at Cornell with a strong
academic record, Philip also participated in numerous extracurricular
activities. In the process of undertaking such responsibilities as
heading the ROTC honor society Scabbard & Blade, being a member of Quill
and Dagger, raising money through a benefit concert for the Shepherd
Rehabilitation Center, and “giving back” to his school by his work as a
Peer Adviser in the College of Engineering, Phil acquired the skills
essential to managing to his demanding schedule. These skills will stand
him in good stead in the future as he makes his way through the world of
unofficial foreign service.
One of Philip’s recommenders observes that “he will undoubtedly continue
to challenge himself to make a lasting impact on everything he touches.
Integrity, service before self, and excellence are his hallmarks.”
When notified that he had been selected a JFK Award winner, Philip
responded, “I am humbled by this great honor.”
We are delighted to welcome Phil Caruso '08, a third award alumnus, to the JFK Award team. Classmates may remember Phil as the US Air Force officer who supported children's programs while serving in Afghanistan. Since his return to the States, Phil has continued as a Major in the Air Force Reserve while obtaining a law degree from Harvard. He has held fellowships at Auschwitz in the study of professional ethics and is currently a teaching fellow at Harvard as well as a Fellow at the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs.
