Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., Governor of Utah
"Many prominent national and international organizations and outstanding people renowned for their ingenuity, innovation and aptitude are located right here within the borders of Utah. Everything from commercial entities to private individuals is recognized annually for their excellence in the Best of State Awards Program.
Best of State recognizes those who are excelling and surpassing all else and who are the best of the best in their respective fields. Nearly two hundred categories in the arts & entertainment, community development, education, travel & tourism, manufacturing, business services, science & technology, and sports & recreation provide opportunities for business operating in Utah to participate.
We are proud of the many accomplishments of our fellow Utahns. I hope you will join me in support of these unique awards and their recipients, which will be televised from the Salt Palace in June. "
Olene S. Walker, Former Governor of Utah
"Utah is comprised of outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses that enhance quality of life through exceptional services, products and accomplishments (and) it is fitting to recognize these groups and individuals and their positive impact on Utah.
The activities and events of Best of State Week honor the achievements of those who enrich the culture, economy and reputation of Utah."
Michael O.Leavitt , Former Governor of Utah
"Innovation is Utah's signature. The television, the artificial heart, stereo sound, and digital media are just a few of the many world-changing ideas that have been conceived and brought to reality right here in our great state. Now, I am pleased to announce an important new awards program designed to recognize Utah's homegrown talent.
Best of State will honor the achievement of outstanding organizations and individuals throughout the state. Best of State awards recipients will represent excellence in a broad array of areas, including art, business, community development, education, science and technology, and agriculture.
We are proud of the many accomplishments of our fellow Utahns. I hope you will join me in support of these unique awards and their recipients. "
Utah Travel Council
"One of the challenges we have is getting people to know and recognize the good and great about Utah. The Olympics helped the world see us at our best, and the Best of State awards will continue to help shine a light on the best of Utah. "
Mayor Tom Dolan, Sandy City
"In Utah, there is a legacy of self-reliance and individualism that is a part of the fabric of the people of the state. Accomplishments in the arts, science, technology, and medicine are representative of the capacity and capability of the people of Utah. I congratulate the Best of State awards program in its effort to bring the rightful recognition to individuals and organizations that truly exemplify excellence on a daily basis. "
Mayor Lewis K. Billings, Provo
"The Best of State awards are a great way to highlight achievements in our state that are truly unique and noteworthy. Our city is anxious to participate and recognize outstanding accomplishments from our community."
Evan Excell, Utah High School Activities Association
"It is with great pleasure and satisfaction that the Utah High School Activities Association endorses the plan of "Best of State". It is a well-conceived idea which is now coming into fruition. We applaud the Best of State notion of more completely honoring the youth of our great state. It is easy to support a program that desires to recognize outstanding accomplishment. Student-athletes deserve such accolades because of the time and effort invested in such activities.
Along with additional honors bestowed by "Best of State", these students will realize long term values gained from participation and competition, such as teamwork, sportsmanship, coping with winning and losing, benefits of hard work, leadership and cooperation. Self-confidence and self-realization are also nurtured through such activities programs. It is a proven fact that activities and competition generate more productive citizens in our communities. We thank the Best of State people for promoting an avenue to accomplish such worthwhile goals."
