Montezuma High senior-to-be Michael De Jong is one of a dozen Iowa individuals and groups who are being recognized with awards for exceptional character.
The awards are being made by The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University.
De Jong will receive the Aaron Eilerts Community Service Award.
The 2020 Iowa Character Awards celebration will be broadcast on KDSM Fox 17 in Des Moine on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at 8 p.m.
De Jong has demonstrated good character by being a leader in his school and community, according to a release from the Ray Center.
“He is very active, participating in cross country, speech, band, student council, and National Honor Society, all while balancing a job, volunteering, and other out-of-school commitments.”
Montezuma area residents recognize that Michael and his younger sister, Elizabeth, have spent countless hours making masks for COVID-19 front line workers.
“Rather than take a free period, Michael devotes his time in school when not in class to working two in-school internship opportunities,” the release continues.
“He spends significant time working with junior high math classes as a tutor and doing graphic design work for the school’s technology department.”
“As a teacher and coach, I know I can count on Michael to do the right thing and set a positive example,” said nominator Kevin Gartman, a teacher and coach in the Montezuma schools.
“Michael is the ultimate role model of character that I have met,” Gartman said.
“The Ray Center annually recognizes Iowans who show the Six Pillars of “Character Counts!: Trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship,” according to the release.
“The 2020 Iowa Character Awards are presented by Hy-Vee, CIM Financial and The Des Moines Register. Additional partners include Iowa Farm Bureau and Alliant Energy.”
“The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, Iowa’s home for the Character Counts! and Excellence with Integrity programs, provides character leadership development strategies to improve civility and develop ethical leaders throughout the world.”