The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) is pleased to announce the 2025 Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology award recipients. Lt. Gov. Henderson will present awards to three individuals who have provided significant contributions and distinguished service to Utah and beyond in the fields of K-12 education, academic/research, and industry. The awards will be presented at This is the Place Heritage Park on May 21, 2025.
“We’re pleased to congratulate this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology,” said Linda Cabrales, director of the Utah Innovation Center powered by GOEO. “Each of these individuals excels in their respective fields and demonstrates the qualities that have built Utah’s thriving science and technology community.”
Academic/Research — Dr. M. Denise Dearing
Dr. Dearing is a renowned ecologist whose pioneering research has advanced the field of ecology and helped position Utah as a leader in scientific innovation. She embodies the highest standards of excellence, educational leadership, and service to Utah’s values.
As the inaugural associate dean for research for the College of Science and later chair of the Department of Biology at the University of Utah, her leadership and vision have been instrumental in transforming the department into the School of Biological Sciences. Some of her many honors include the Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award, the C. Hart Merriam Award, and being named a distinguished professor by the University of Utah. Dearing has published more than 180 peer-reviewed publications with over 11,500 citations and has received extensive external funding to support her research projects. Her contributions continue to inspire students, peers, and future generations of scientists.
Industry — Individual: Mr. Sidney J. Green
Sidney Green is an engineer and entrepreneur who helped shape Utah’s high-tech industry. As founder, president, and CEO of TerraTek, he positioned Utah as a leader in geomechanics analysis, sparking economic growth that led to the development of other technology companies across the state.
Green has played a pivotal role in advancing science and engineering in Utah. He advised the governor and Legislature as a member of the Utah Science Council and was the founding chair of the Utah Technology Finance Corporation. In 1994, he was elected to the National Academy of Engineering — one of only 15 members from Utah to serve in this capacity. He holds 24 patents, has published 119 peer-reviewed papers, and is internationally recognized for his groundbreaking technical achievements.
K-12 Education — Dr. Nicola Hack
Dr. Hack started her career in education after earning a Ph.D. in developmental neurobiology and working as a research scientist. Realizing a need for early STEM education, she collaborated with fellow experts to launch a science-focused charter school. Her commitment to interdisciplinary, science-based learning continues to shape students’ educational journeys.
Over the years, Hack’s visionary leadership has created impactful opportunities for students to excel while supporting future educators and leaders. Her leadership, unwavering commitment to equitable STEM education, ability to develop teacher capacity, and transformative impact on students exemplify excellence in education.
We congratulate these awardees for their dedication, passion, and commitment to science and technology and look forward to their continued impact on our community and the world.
All past recipients of this prestigious award are encouraged to attend the 2025 Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology award ceremony and dinner. To RSVP, contact [email protected]. To learn more about the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology, visit our website.