Alex Cummings Receives Liberia's Highest Honor

Urges fellow honorees to help create a 'new Liberia'

Alex Cummings, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, recently received Liberia's highest honor for his ongoing dedication to his home country and the people of Africa.

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf decorated Cummings with the Knight Great Band of the Liberian Humane Order of African Redemption, citing his invaluable service to humanity and to Liberia. The ceremony was held July 21 in Monrovia as part of festivities celebrating the nation's 164th anniversary of independence.

"To receive such a special honor from a country that has meant so much to my life is something I will cherish always," said Cummings, who was recognized alongside Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and other distinguished honorees.

Cummings, who was accompanied by his family at the ceremony, spoke passionately and optimistically about the future of his home country. He applauded President Sirleaf for her leadership in restoring pride and hope among the people of Liberia, and in creating a foundation of economic growth and stability.

"All of us gathered here are handed an incredible opportunity -- to create a new Liberia," Cummings said. "We have the incredible opportunity to be at the ground floor of creating a new and better country."

To go beyond words and commitment in moving the country forward, Cummings stressed the need for action, applying talent and determination within Liberia and, like himself, contributing to the future of the country from afar.

"There are always those who, unhappy with the rain, would legislate sunshine... preferring to talk and not act," Cummings said. "All of us must take action -- as individuals and in concert with others who share our vision for the country."