FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 14, 2018) – Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes
announced Wednesday that her office is accepting nominations for the 2018 Kentucky
Outstanding Civic Education Leadership Award.
The award recognizes teachers, school administrators, legislators and community
leaders who have made significant contributions toward promoting civic learning to
teach students the importance of being engaged citizens.
“Throughout my life, I have looked up to some incredible educators and mentors along
the way. They helped instill in me a love for serving others,” Grimes said. “I know
that many of the young Kentuckians I meet have mentors like mine supporting their
interests and helping them seek their dreams. The Outstanding Civic Education
Leadership Award is a way to recognize those people who dedicate their time, energy,
and are committed to the success of Kentucky’s youth, our future leaders.”
The award winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize to be used to further his or her
civic learning initiatives. One finalist is selected from each Kentucky High School
Athletic Association region and each will receive a $250 award. The award winner and
the finalists are recognized during the KHSAA Boy’s Sweet 16 Basketball Tournament
in Lexington in March.
Diane Ford of Owensboro received the 2017 award. She developed the Wendell H. Ford
Statesmanship Academy, in honor of her husband Clay Ford’s late grandfather, U.S.
Sen. Wendell H. Ford of Kentucky. The Ford Academy exposes students to all facets of
local, state and federal government; teaches students to engage in civil discourse
on public policy; and most importantly, to learn how to engage in thoughtful debate
and discussion where all viewpoints are respected. Ford received a $1,000 award for
resources for the program.
Application/Nomination forms and additional information about the award are
available at sos.ky.gov.
The Office of the Secretary of State sponsors this award with the Administrative Office of the Courts and the Kentucky Department of Education.
The deadline for nominations and submissions is March 6.