Nominations sought for Idaho achievement honor

BOISE — Gov. “Butch” Otter has unveiled a new public service campaign seeking nominations for the highest civilian honor that Idaho bestows on its citizens.

“Celebrating the most noteworthy achievements and contributions of our citizens is important, and something this office is uniquely situated to do,” Otter said. “We are looking for individuals who have distinguished themselves through their civic virtue and brought great credit to Idaho.”

The Idaho Medal of Achievement was created by Executive Order in November 2015 to recognize individual Idahoans for their “exceptional, meritorious, and inspirational” service to the people of Idaho

NASA teacher-astronaut Barbara Morgan became the first Idahoan to receive the prestigious honor in January 2017 at the conclusion of Otter’s State of the State address before a joint session of the Idaho Legislature.

The Idaho Medal of Achievement is awarded annually to individuals — living or dead — who are nominated by the public. The names of no more than five finalists will be forwarded for the governor’s consideration.

The public is encouraged to go to Otters website and submit a nomination form for deserving individuals for the 2019 award. All nominations must be postmarked if by U.S. mail and received in the Governor’s Office if by email by March 31, 2018.