Media Contact:
Hilary Ortmann
Director, Events and Administration
The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University
hilary.ortmann@drake.edu
T: 515-305-0219
DES MOINES, Iowa (July 29, 2024) – The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University will host the 2024 Iowa Character Awards on Friday, Aug. 2, at Prairie Meadows Event Center. Twelve Iowa individuals and groups will be recognized for their exceptional character, including Carter Hammer of Sioux City.
An Iowa Character Awards primetime special featuring the 2024 award recipients will air on Fox affiliate stations during the following dates and times:
* Fox 28 (Cedar Rapids) on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 8-9 p.m.
* Fox 17 (Des Moines) on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 8-9 p.m.
The Iowa Character Awards special will also be posted at IowaCharacterAwards.org.
Carter Hammer will receive the Youth Citizen of Character Award. Carter is an incoming junior at Sioux City West High School where he is actively involved in band, choir, orchestra, theater, athletics, speech, dance team, and more. Carter is known as an advocate for others, who stands up for justice and promotes good character in everything he does. Carter gives back to his community through his local church, where he helps organize rummage sales, food giveaways, and free breakfasts. He also volunteers at local food banks. Leading by example, Carter often goes out of his way to include others and make sure that they feel seen and heard. Carter is a leader and a joyful participant in all he does. He is also a role model to the many young students he inspires through his theater adventures.
The Ray Center annually recognizes Iowans who show the Six Pillars of CHARACTER COUNTS!: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. Since 2005, the organization has recognized more than 200 Iowans for showing good character.
The 2024 Iowa Character Awards are presented by Hy-Vee, FOX 17, Prairie Meadows, and Murphy Enterprizes. For a complete list of 2024 Iowa Character Award recipients or to submit a 2025 nomination, visit IowaCharacterAwards.org.
The Ray Center helps create strong, vibrant communities that value positive, healthy relationships and respectful behavior.
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