Headshots of William Conway, co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, and Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander of U.S. Strategic Command

BENS to Honor William Conway, Gen. Anthony Cotton at Eisenhower Award Gala

Business Executives for National Security will honor William Conway, co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, and Gen. Anthony Cotton, commander of U.S. Strategic Command and a previous Wash100 awardee, at the 2025 BENS Eisenhower Award Gala on June 25, Wednesday, in Washington, D.C.

BENS will present the 2025 Eisenhower Award to Conway and Cotton in recognition of their exceptional leadership in advancing U.S. defense and security.

William Conway

The private sector plays a key role in driving innovation and advancing the development of technological capabilities needed to defend U.S. interests against domestic and international threats. 

Through his decades of leadership at Carlyle, Conway has helped develop and sustain the industrial and economic engines that support U.S. national security.

Gen. Anthony Cotton

Visionary leadership, commitment to national defense and steadfast resolve are needed to ensure U.S. security in today’s evolving security landscape. These are some qualities that Cotton exemplifies as he leads the 41,000 service members and civilians tasked with preserving U.S. strategic deterrence.

Join BENS as it recognizes two esteemed individuals for their vital role in safeguarding the nation. The event will kick off at 6:30 p.m. at The Ritz Carlton in Washington, D.C. Register here for the event.

Founded in 1982, BENS is a nonprofit organization comprised of accomplished industry executives and entrepreneurs who share their experience and best practices to help address national security challenges facing the country. Mark Gerencser, a four-time Wash100 awardee, serves as chairman of the board of BENS.

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