On October 22, the Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation (PDFF) celebrated innovation and leadership with the annual Freedom Award ceremony. This year, Incyte Corporation—a global leader in biopharmaceutical innovation—represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Hervé Hoppenot, was recognized for its outstanding contributions to the fields of oncology and inflammation, exemplifying the spirit of visionary leadership that the award represents.

Each year, the Freedom Award is presented to an individual or organization that has championed innovative ideas leading to significant economic growth in the private sector. The award honors the legacy of Governor Pete du Pont, who led the state through fiscal challenges and into a period of vibrant economic development. Past award recipients include LabWare Founder Vance Kershner, MBNA Corporation, UD Horn Entrepreneurship Co-Founder Charlie Horn, and Endo Pharmaceuticals Founder Carol Ammon, among others.

Incyte’s work in pharmaceutical innovation has positioned it as a key player in the global healthcare landscape, with over 2,500 employees across North America, Europe, and Asia, eight approved products, and clinical trials in multiple disease areas. Under Hoppenot’s leadership, the company has also earned a place on Science Magazine’s Top Employer list for six consecutive years.

During his acceptance speech, Hoppenot emphasized the journey of Incyte, acknowledging the ups and downs along the way. He highlighted the company’s substantial investment in research and development—nearly double the industry average—stressing that true innovation is fueled by freedom. Hoppenot remarked, “Progress has made the world a better place. Progress is based on innovation, and innovation is based on freedom,” reinforcing the vital link between liberation and the advancement of medicine worldwide.

A Special Tribute to Scott Malfitano

This year’s Freedom Award celebration also featured a heartfelt tribute to Scott Malfitano, Vice President of Corporation Service Company (CSC) and the Founding Board Member of the Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation. Inspired by his work with Governor Pete du Pont, Malfitano established the Foundation to honor Governor du Pont’s legacy by championing innovation and celebrating those who drive change.

After over 20 years of dedicated service to the Foundation and its mission, Malfitano announced his decision to step down from his leadership role. He was honored with a special presentation, recognizing his vital role in shaping the Foundation’s success and advancing innovation in the state.

2024 Reinventing Delaware Winner

The Freedom Award ceremony also spotlighted the Reinventing Delaware initiative—PDFF’s entrepreneurial incubator program aimed at generating job-creating ideas that improve life in Delaware.

This year’s winner, Toivoa, Championed by CEO and Chair Laura Randa, is focused on addressing mental health disparities for people with disabilities. Toivoa’s initiative will expand access to digital therapy services, providing inclusive mental health solutions to this underserved community.

In addition to Toivoa, we honored two other finalists who competed for the Top Idea of the Year:

  • Kerriann Otaño, VP of Engagement at OperaDelaware, envisions an artist hub to make Delaware a thriving center for opera, boosting cultural and economic growth.
  • William Repetto, CEO of Repetto Writing Solutions, aims to enhance federal grant funding for Delaware companies, driving business innovation and growth.

Looking Ahead: Reinventing Delaware 2025

Reinventing Delaware begins with the Reinventing Delaware Dinner, where 100 guests attending the dinner must come up with an idea to create jobs and make Delaware a better place to live, work, and raise a family. These ideas are then evaluated based on their potential impact on private or social enterprises. The most promising proposals advance through a six-month development program, and each year a new winner is announced.

Are you a Delawarean with a bold vision for the future? Now is the time to get involved with Reinventing Delaware 2025! PDFF is seeking bold, innovative ideas focused on addressing:

  • Economic development
  • Education
  • Workforce development
  • Advancing the Delaware brand
  • Attracting young talent to Delaware

The deadline for submissions has been extended to 11:59 PM on November 4.

Looking to support the event? Sponsorship opportunities for the 10th Anniversary Reinventing Delaware Dinner and 2025 program are now open. For more information, reach out to Stephanie Johnnie at [email protected].

Our Sincere Appreciation for Your Support

On behalf of the Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation, we would like to thank everyone who attended and made our 2024 Freedom Award celebration a night to remember. Your contributions and participation made the evening a true success, honoring the many individuals who drive innovation and progress in Delaware.

If you were unable to attend this year but would still like to support our mission, we invite you to make a charitable contribution to the foundation. Your support helps invest strategic, practical resources to position businesses for success — ultimately creating jobs and improving our communities.