March 31, 2026
Ford’s Theatre Society celebrates the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln at its annual gala performance on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Ford’s Theatre. For more than 45 years, Ford’s Theatre Society has hosted this bipartisan event, during which the organization will present the Lincoln Medal to two distinguished honorees: Grammy Award-winning conductor Leonard Slatkin, one of the leading American conductors of his generation, and Gary Sinise—an Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award–winning actor, director, producer, humanitarian and dedicated advocate for active duty military, veterans and their families. The Lincoln Medal, awarded by the Ford’s Theatre Society, recognizes individuals whose body of work, accomplishments and character reflect the enduring legacy and strength of character embodied by President Abraham Lincoln.
“Each year, the Lincoln Medal invites us to consider how Abraham Lincoln’s legacy continues to live on through individuals whose work strengthens our nation,” said Paul R. Tetreault, Director of Ford’s Theatre. “This year, we are proud to honor two remarkable leaders whose contributions span the arts and public service. Leonard Slatkin has shaped the sound of American music for generations, while Gary Sinise has used his platform over the last 40+ years to uplift and serve those who have sacrificed for our country, including establishing the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011 as an amplification of those efforts to support our nation’s heroes. Together, they embody a commitment to excellence, compassion and civic responsibility that reflects the very best of the American spirit.”
Leonard Slatkin, a commanding presence in American classical music, is widely recognized as a leading advocate for the nation’s repertoire. He has connected the richness of established symphonic traditions with a strong commitment to accessibility, education and the preservation of musical heritage over his 60-year career.
Past recipients of the Lincoln Medal include The Honorable Nancy Pelosi (2024) and philanthropist Stephen A. Schwarzman (2024); EGOT-winning and trailblazing actress Rita Moreno (2023) and health advocate Marlene A. Malek (2023); The Honorable James E. Clyburn (2022) and music industry legend Clive Davis, Jr. (2022); General Colin L. Powell and Alma J. Powell (2019) and political humorist Mark Russell (2019); philanthropist and businesswoman Sheila C. Johnson (2018) and golf champion Jack Nicklaus (2018); former NFL player Peyton W. Manning (2017); civil rights activist Diane Nash (2015); Congressman John D. Dingell (2014) and actor James Earl Jones (2014); former Secretary of State Dr. Condoleezza Rice (2013); Holocaust survivor and author Elie Wiesel (2012); human rights activist Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu (2010) and Justice Albie Sachs (2010); filmmaker George Lucas (2009), singer Aretha Franklin (2009) and actor Sidney Poitier (2009); Dr. Maya Angelou (2008), actor Ruby Dee (2008) and Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor (2008); and Congressman John Lewis (2007).