INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Historical Society recognized extraordinary people with Hoosier ties Thursday at its Living Legends gala.
The 2019 honorees include Eva Mozes Kor. Kor died earlier this month at age 85.
After surviving the Holocaust, Kor made it her mission to spread a message to never forget the Holocaust, but also learn to forgive.
Her son accepted the award on her behalf.
“The common perception is that my mom is the survivor that forgave,” Alex Kor said. “She did forgive. That was not her biggest give to the world. I think she taught people about the Holocaust. I think she reminded people what happened to other people and Holocaust survivors and people that didn't make it, and I think just educating people about the atrocities hopefully the future will discourage others to do the same."
The gala also honored Peyton Manning.
The former Colts quarterback is known for his success on the football field — breaking records and bringing a super bowl victory to Indianapolis. But he also established the Peyback Foundation, which assists programs that provide opportunities for children at risk. He's also an ambassador and advocate for Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St. Vincent.
"I'm proud of being a Hoosier, of getting adopted by indiana 21 years ago,” Manning said. You know, Hoosiers are kind of roll-your-sleeves-up, get-your-hands-dirty kind of people. I raised up from that from day one. On the football field and also in the community. Trying to give back, trying to make Indiana a better place to live."
Other living legends include Angela Ahrendts, who most recently served as senior vice president of Apple Retail, and Dan and Beth Elsener, the current president and first lady of Marian University.
