The Kennedy Foundation established the International Awards Program to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of intellectual disabilities by individuals or organizations.  Widely recognized as the "Nobel Prize" of the field, the Kennedy International Awards were given periodically in the categories of scientific research, service, and leadership.  Such discoveries as the cause and/or cure of PKU (phenylketonuria), RH disease, Down Syndrome, and Fragile X Disorder have been recognized by these awards. 

Among the awardees are internationally recognized scientists, humanitarians, and practitioners including:

Ivar Folling of Norway
Maria Boggs of Sweden
B.F. Skinner
Robert E. Cooke
Elizabeth Boggs
Paul Wehman
Marty Krauss
Lowell Weicker
Robert Guthrie
The Arc