Iowa Character Award Nominations Sought

Do you know someone who displays massive amounts of character? Do you know anyone who is trustworthy, respectful, responsible, fair, caring, and a great citizen? Nominate them. Currently the Ray Center is seeking Iowa Character Award Nominations.

Anyone can submit a nomination, and Iowa citizens (ages 10 years and older), organizations, and communities are eligible.

Since 2005, over 100 Iowans have been recognized for displaying good character. The nomination form is based on the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.

Recognition is being awarded in the following categories:

• Citizen of Character Award (Adult) and Citizen of Character Award (Youth): Presented to individuals who consistently demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character.
• Organization of Character: Presented to a company or organization that demonstrates the Six Pillars of Character through their work.
• Community of Character Award: Presented to an Iowa community that encourages good character throughout the entire community.
• Pursuing Victory with Honor Award: Presented to an athletic team organization that consistently shows the Six Pillars of Character.
• Educator of Character Award: Presented to an educator or administrator who impacts students by using innovative character education practices.
• School of Character Award: Presented to a school or district that who impacts students by using innovative character education practices.

Nominations are due by Wednesday, May 11. More information and nomination forms are available at www.drake.edu/raycenter. Any questions can be directed to Hilary Ortmann at hilary.ortmann@drake.edu or 515-271-2915.

The 2016 Iowa Character Awards ceremony will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 29 at Prairie Meadows Events Center, 1 Prairie Meadows Drive, Altoona.

The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, Iowa’s home for the CHARACTER COUNTS! and Excellence with Integrity programs, provides character and leadership development strategies to improve civility and develop ethical leaders throughout the world. The Ray Center honors two of Drake’s most respected alumni—Robert D. and Billie Ray—whose humanitarian efforts, character, and leadership set an inspirational example for multiple generations.