Our Iowa Character Awards celebrate Iowans who model integrity, leadership, responsibility, and service in their communities.
Josephine Gittler is a professor at the University of Iowa College of Law and a leader in public service and civic education. Over her career, she has advanced protections for vulnerable populations and founded the Alliance for Civic Education of Iowa. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and strengthening communities.
Andrew Goetsch is a junior at Cedar Falls High School known for his leadership and service. He founded community health initiatives, leads his school’s Leo Club, and advocates for mental health and dyslexia awareness. Andrew uses his talents to serve others and make a meaningful impact in his school and community.
Cody DeKruyff is a teacher at Pella Middle School known for building strong relationships and creating a positive learning environment. He challenges students to grow while supporting them academically and personally. Through teaching, coaching, and service, Cody models character and makes a lasting impact on his students.
The Mason City Dance Team is a group of student athletes known for their commitment to service and teamwork. Each member contributes volunteer hours throughout the community, supporting local events and organizations. Their dedication to service and leadership reflects what it means to pursue victory with honor.
Spirit Lake Elementary School is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported. Through efforts like developing an all-inclusive playground, the school promotes belonging, connection, and respect. Their focus on inclusion helps shape a culture of empathy and community.
Roosevelt Latinos in Action is a student leadership organization that empowers students through service, academic success, and community engagement. Members tutor younger students, organize events, and promote cultural pride. Their work strengthens their school and community while developing confident, service-minded leaders.
Iowa Concerns of Police Survivors (Iowa C.O.P.S.) supports families affected by the line-of-duty death of a law enforcement officer. Founded by survivors, the organization provides immediate and long-term care, guidance, and connection. Their compassionate work ensures no family faces tragedy alone.
The City of Inwood is a close-knit northwest Iowa community known for its resilience and strong sense of care. In times of need, residents come together to support one another and their neighbors. Through everyday kindness and collective action, Inwood exemplifies what it means to be a community of character.
These awards are annually chosen by The Ray Center’s National Advisory Council and team.
Kirk Tyler is Chairman of the Board of Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company and a respected leader known for his integrity, generosity, and commitment to community. A longtime supporter of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center and CHARACTER COUNTS!, Kirk has helped advance character development and ethical leadership initiatives across Iowa and beyond. Through his business leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to doing what is right, he exemplifies the Six Pillars of Character.
Kristi Knous is a respected community leader whose vision and advocacy have strengthened communities across Iowa. As President of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, she has championed initiatives that promote character, civility, and civic engagement. Through her leadership, partnership, and unwavering commitment to service, Kristi has helped advance The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center’s mission and impact for more than two decades.
Murphy Enterprises is a valued partner dedicated to strengthening communities through service, leadership, and collaboration. Based in Ankeny, the organization supports initiatives that expand opportunities and encourage meaningful community engagement. Through the leadership of Trent and Laura Murphy, Murphy Enterprises exemplifies character, generosity, and a commitment to helping others thrive.
Dylan Dornack is a junior at Creston High School who demonstrates leadership, service, and commitment to others. An Eagle Scout and Iowa FBLA State President, he has led projects that support his community and volunteers locally and nationally. Dylan consistently shows what it means to lead through service.
While only one recipient is selected in each category, the selection committee was inspired by the many outstanding nominations submitted from across Iowa. These individuals and organizations exemplify character in action and deserve recognition for the positive difference they make in their communities.
Mashal Husain, Clive | Person of Character Honorable Mention
Chad Nath, Grinnell | Person of Character Honorable Mention
Audrey Whalin, Urbandale | Person of Character Honorable Mention
City of Manning | Community of Character Honorable Mention
Kirsten Weber, Nevada | Educator of Character Honorable Mention
Michel Carnahan, Tama | Educator of Character Honorable Mention
Roosevelt High School Boys Soccer Team, Des Moines | Jim Hallihan Pursuing Victory with Honor Honorable Mention
FreeStore, West Des Moines | Organization of Character Honorable Mention
Burke Corporation, Nevada | Business of Character Honorable Mention
Mason City Alternative School, Mason City | School of Character Honorable Mention
Pella Middle School Student Council, Pella | Student Organization of Character Honorable Mention
Iowa Character Awards have been presented since 2005.
Award Categories
Iowans make up the volunteer award selection committee.
Presented to individuals who consistently demonstrate good character.
Presented to individuals who consistently demonstrate good character.
This award is presented to an educator or administrator who impacts students by using innovative character education practices.
The Jim Hallihan Pursuing Victory with Honor Award is presented to an athletic team or athletic organization that consistently shows good character.
This award is presented to a school or district that who impacts students by using innovative character education practices.
This award is presented to a student organization that consistently shows good character.
Presented to a company or organization that demonstrates good character through their work.
Presented to a community that demonstrates and consistently shows good character through their work.
Individuals, organizations, and communities who have not received an Iowa Character Award in the last 5 years are eligible.
Previous nominees and Honorable Mention recipients are eligible.
Youth nominees should be between the ages of 10 -19 as of May 2, 2026.
Anyone can submit a nomination. You can nominate family, friends, co-workers, and community members. You can nominate your own school, organization, or company.
Besides telling us who you’re nominating, you’ll answer three prompts:
You’ll also be able to attach supporting materials, like letters of recommendation, newspaper articles, etc.
Nomination Tips
You don’t have to complete the form all at once. Create a username/password to save your nominations and return to it later.
Give examples. A successful nomination will include specific examples of the nominee showing good character.
Ask for help. You don’t have to complete the nomination alone. Ask the nominee’s friends, families, or co-workers for examples of the nominee’s good character. You can also attach letters of recommendation.
Being recognized for good character is a big deal! We’ll make sure nominees and recipients are honored in meaningful ways.
All nominees will receive a formal certificate of recognition, and we’ll celebrate our award recipients in three ways.
