Last week, the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) proudly awarded three recipients with the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology — the governor’s highest honor. Lt. Gov. Henderson presented the awards to individuals whose outstanding contributions and service have advanced local and global communities in K-12 education, research, and industry.
“This year’s award recipients exemplify what makes our state extraordinary — a relentless drive to explore and build,” said Gov. Cox. “These individuals are shaping Utah’s future and making a meaningful difference in the world. We’re proud to honor their achievements and are inspired by their impact.”
In her address to the audience, Lt. Gov. Henderson stated, “This awards ceremony has a long and prestigious history, dating back to 1987. Each recipient is part of a deep legacy of innovators, scientists, and researchers who have led the charge in developing Utah’s future. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their long hours of hard work and dedication.”
More than 100 people attended the event, including Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, GOEO’s newly appointed executive director Jefferson Moss, scientists, industry leaders, government officials, community members, families and peers of current and past recipients, and guests.
Congratulations to this year’s recipients:
- K-12 Education — Dr. Nicola Hack
- Academic/Research — Dr. M. Denise Dearing
- Industry — Mr. Sidney J. Green
K-12 Education — Dr. Nicola Hack
Dr. Nicola Hack began her career as a research scientist with a Ph.D. in developmental neurobiology before turning to education to address the need for early STEM learning. She helped launch a science-focused charter school and has since led efforts to expand interdisciplinary, science-based education. Her leadership has created opportunities for students and supported the development of future educators, reflecting her commitment to equity, excellence, and innovation in STEM education.
Academic/Research — Dr. M. Denise Dearing
Dr. Denise Dearing is a renowned ecologist whose groundbreaking research and leadership have positioned Utah as a leader in scientific innovation. As the inaugural associate dean for research and later chair of the Department of Biology at the University of Utah, she played a key role in its transformation into the School of Biological Sciences. Named a distinguished professor and recipient of numerous honors — including the Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award and the C. Hart Merriam Award — she has published over 180 peer-reviewed papers with more than 11,500 citations. Her contributions continue to inspire students, peers, and future scientists.
Industry — Individual: Mr. Sidney J. Green
Sidney Green is an engineer and entrepreneur who helped shape Utah’s high-tech industry by founding TerraTek and establishing the state as a leader in geomechanics analysis. He served on the Utah Science Council, was the founding chair of the Utah Technology Finance Corporation, and was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 1994 — one of only 15 Utahns to receive the honor. Green holds 24 patents, has published 119 peer-reviewed papers, and is internationally recognized for his technical achievements and contributions to science and engineering in Utah.
We celebrate these exceptional recipients for their passion and dedication to advancing science and technology, and we look forward to the lasting impact their work will continue to make in Utah and beyond.
About the Award
The Utah Innovation Center, a division of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), plays a key role in the administration and selection of the prestigious Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology awards. Each year, public nominations are evaluated by an independent panel of academic scientists, STEM educators, industry leaders, and past awardees, and recommendations are presented to the Governor.”