Visionary Award

Dr. David Fetterman has been honored with the prestigious Visionary Award for his transformative contributions to artificial intelligence, evaluation, and social justice. A true trailblazer, he possesses the unique ability to foresee and harness both human and digital potential, unlocking pathways for the greater good that others have yet to envision. His pioneering work in integrating advanced technologies—including videoconferencing, wearable devices, voice recognition, and artificial intelligence—has set a new standard for innovation.

As the founder of empowerment evaluation, Dr. Fetterman has empowered countless individuals worldwide to turn their aspirations into reality. His influential initiatives have revitalized struggling academic institutions, bridged the digital divide in marginalized communities, curbed the spread of tuberculosis in India, and championed food justice in the United States. Dr. Fetterman’s unwavering commitment to social equity highlights the profound impact of visionary thinking, inspiring future generations to continue the vital work of addressing systemic injustices through the lens of technology.

Dr. Fetterman is a distinguished global leader in the field of evaluation and consultation, serving as the president of Fetterman & Associates, an internationally renowned firm that operates in over 18 countries across diverse sectors. From townships in South Africa to cutting-edge technology firms like Google and Hewlett-Packard, his firm has made a profound impact worldwide.

With 25 years of distinguished service at Stanford University, Dr. Fetterman has held pivotal roles, including faculty member at the School of Education, Director of Evaluation at the School of Medicine, and senior administrator. He is a past president of both the American Evaluation Association and the American Anthropological Association’s Council on Anthropology and Education.

His TED Talk on self-determination has garnered global attention, amplifying his influence as a thought leader. A prolific author and editor, Dr. Fetterman has penned nearly 20 seminal books, including Empowerment Evaluation and Social Justice and Empowerment Evaluation and the Digital Villages: Hewlett-Packard’s $15 Million Race Toward Social Justice.

This award, which recognizes Dr. Fetterman’s extraordinary impact, was presented by IAOTP at the prestigious Bellagio in Las Vegas, marking a fitting tribute to his decades of transformative work.