Nomination Tips

Writing the nomination:

• You don't have to complete the form all at once.  The nomination form allows you to create a username so that you may save your form and return to it later.
• Give examples.  The nomination form is based upon the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.  A successful nomination will include different examples of how the nominee showed each Pillar.
• Ask for help.  You don't have to complete the nomination alone.  Ask the nominee's friends, families, co-workers for examples of the nominee's good character.

Who can be nominated?
Iowa citizens (ages 10 and older), organizations, and communities who have not received an Iowa Character Award in the last 5 years are eligible.  Youth nominees should be between the ages of 10-18 as of May 1, 2021.

Who can nominate?
Anyone can submit a nomination.  You can nominate family, friends, co-workers and community members.  You can nominate your own school, organization or company.

More about the award categories:

• Citizen of Character Award (Adult) and Citizen of Character Award (Youth): Presented to individuals who consistently demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character.  

• Business/Organization of Character: Presented to a company or organization that demonstrates the Six Pillars of Character through their work. 

• Student Organization of Character: Presented to a student lead organization that demonstrates the Six Pillars of Character.

• Community of Character Award: Presented to an Iowa community that encourages good character throughout the entire community. 

• Jim Hallihan Pursuing Victory with Honor Award: Presented to an athletic team or athletic 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. 

We're here to help.  If you have questions, please don't hesitate to contact Hilary Ortmann at Hilary.Ortmann@drake.edu or 515-271-2915.