The Orrin G. Hatch Foundation held its annual Titan of Public Service Award gala this evening, recognizing the achievements of United States Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas. The annual event honors public servants who have demonstrated the virtues of service, civility, and principled leadership throughout their careers.
This year’s gala continues a tradition of celebrating public servants who go above and beyond the call of duty. Past recipients of the award include Senate Republican Leader John Thune, former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao.
Senator Cotton grew up the son of a cattle farmer in Yell County, Arkansas, and rose from rural beginnings to become a decorated Army officer and a respected figure in the U.S. Senate, shaping foreign and defense policy. After earning degrees from Harvard and Harvard Law School, he joined the military following the attacks of 9/11, completing combat deployments in both Iraq and Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne Division. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Ranger Tab. In the Senate, he has become a leading authority on foreign policy and national security.
“Orrin was a staunch conservative, but he also believed in public service,” said Senator Tom Cotton. “He believed in civic participation. He believed in dialogue and civility and working with your political opponents wherever you could. That’s why he served successfully for forty-two years and passed more than 750 laws. Every American, regardless of political party and whether or not they hold or seek public office, can learn a lot from Orrin Hatch and his legacy. It’s a privilege to receive the Titan of Public Service Award in honor of the memory, legacy, and example of our good friend, Orrin Hatch.”
“Senator Cotton exemplifies the kind of leadership that’s grounded in service and guided by purpose,” said Matt Sandgren, Executive Director of the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation. “Whether on the battlefield or in the halls of Congress, he brings the same level of discipline, preparation, and clarity. We are honored to present him with this year’s Titan of Public Service Award.“
Scott Anderson, Chairman of the Board of the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation, added: “Senator Cotton has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to country, to the Constitution, and the cause of freedom. Whether standing up to foreign adversaries or fighting to protect our country’s future, Senator Cotton has shown the kind of leadership that we need to continue elevating. Tonight’s award honors the ideals Senator Hatch promoted throughout his life: civility, courage, and dedication to the common good. It’s my great privilege to present the 2025 Titan of Public Service award to Senator Cotton.”
The Orrin G. Hatch Foundation remains committed to promoting the values of public service and bipartisan cooperation and looks forward to continuing this tradition of honoring those who exemplify the spirit of public service in the years to come.
