WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor during a ceremony at the White House on Saturday. Nineteen individuals, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and billionaire donor George Soros, received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. Others honored during the ceremony included humanitarian José Andrés, conservationist Jane Goodall, and actor Denzel Washington.

In his remarks, Biden emphasized the diverse backgrounds of the award recipients, stating, ‘a collection of people, with different backgrounds and beliefs and talents, different generations and different agendas, using their remarkable gifts and unwavering passion to strengthen our resolve as one nation under god indivisible, liberty and justice for all.’

The medal is presented to those who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States. Biden remarked, ‘These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place.’ Four recipients were recognized posthumously.

Clinton received the award shortly before the inauguration of her former opponent, President-elect Donald Trump. She previously made history as the first woman nominated by a major party for the presidency in 2016.

George Soros, recognized for his contributions to human rights causes and a major supporter of the Democratic Party, has donated billions to various philanthropic causes. Celebrated performers like Bono and Michael J. Fox also received honors for their advocacy work.

Posthumously honored individuals included Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated during his 1968 presidential campaign, and Ashton Carter, a former Secretary of Defense.

Earlier in the week, Biden awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to 20 recipients, further emphasizing his commitment to honoring individuals who have contributed to democracy and civic responsibility.