The medal is the nation’s highest civilian honor, given to those who have made “meritorious contributions” to U.S. security, world peace or cultural endeavors. Thomas is an actress, producer, activist, and philanthropist. She has spent her life advocating on behalf of children, families and gender equality. She currently serves as the director of National Outreach for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which was founded in 1962 by her father, Danny Thomas, and a dedicated group of Arab Americans known as the American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities. Nineteen others received the honor, including Actress Meryl Streep, Musician Stevie Wonder and journalist Tom Brokaw.