.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Nominations for the 2019 Governor’s New Mexico Distinguished Public Service Awards are now being accepted and will culminate in a gala celebration banquet this fall in Albuquerque.

The 47th annual program seeks out individuals to recognize not only unusual contributions to public service and the improvement of government at all levels, but also exceptional contributions to the community.

Eight to 12 individuals, plus a lifetime award recipient, typically are chosen each year. They will be celebrated during a banquet Nov. 13 at the Marriott Pyramid in Albuquerque.

The program has maintained a focus on finding and honoring deserving individuals from throughout the state, and especially from smaller towns and pueblo and tribal areas.

Developed by Dr. Albert Rosenthal, professor and director emeritus in Public Administration at the University of New Mexico in the 1960s, it has raised thousands of dollars in scholarships at three New Mexico universities.

To nominate, visit the program website at www.nmdpsa.com. For more information, call Dorian Rader at 505-843-1347.

Awards are given in four categories: federal government and national laboratories, state government and universities, local and Indian government, and business and civic.

The program, chaired by Sherman McCorkle, aims to promote public appreciation of the quality of people in public service and to encourage young people to pursue such careers.

Officials currently serving in elected office are not eligible for the awards.

Tickets for the banquet are $65 each or $650 for a table of 10.