Best of the best: Wennergren, Duffey receive Eagle Awards

David Wennergren and James Duffey Jr. received the Eagle Awards at the Federal 100 Awards banquet on March 26, recognizing their contributions to the federal information technology community in 2006. Wennergren, the Navy's chief information officer who was recently named deputy CIO for the Defense Department, received the Federal 100 award primarily for his role in DOD's identity management initiatives. In presenting Wennergren with the Eagle Award for government, Ira Hobbs highlighted Wennergren's outstanding leadership abilities. Calling him a "peaceful warrior," Hobbs said Wennergren represents "all those values we want in the workplace --- leadership, loyalty and integrity." Hobbs, who won the Federal 100 award multiple times during a long government career, recently joined the Council for Excellence in Government.Duffey, general manager of U.S. Public Sector at EDS, received the Eagle Award for industry in recognition of his numerous civic activities in the IT community. Duffey has taken a major role in the Hoop Dreams Scholarship Fund program, which helps disadvantaged youths in the Washington, D.C., area realize their dreams of higher education. Professionally, Duffey has spearheaded EDS' support for the small business community, helping up-and-coming firms gain a foothold in the federal market.Duffey was presented his award by Bobbie Kilberg, president and chief executive officer of the Northern Virginia Technology Council. "It's very gratifying to have the professionals in the industry give you an honor," said Duffey. The Eagle Award winners were selected by a panel made up of previous award winners.