May 21, 2025 The Utah Innovation Center, part of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity hosted the Utah Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology Awards.
This is my very favorite event. Each year the Governor recognizes leaders in the science and technology community – and has done so since the 1980’s! Former medalists are invited to celebrate with the new winners! The year I received my medal, our oldest daughter said, “Mom, you and Dad know a lot of really smart people!” Well that is true and what a privilege it is to have so much talent in our Utah community. I’ve added a number of pictures below of the 2025 Medals event.
Thank you to the Utah Innovation Center for this picture that includes this year’s award winners as well as all of the past medal winners who were in attendance (yes, that’s me proudly in the back row, third from left)
Lt. Gov. Henderson shared, “This awards ceremony has a long and prestigious history, dating back to 1987. Each recipient is part of a deep legacy of innovators, scientists, and researchers who have led the charge in developing Utah’s future. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their long hours of hard work and dedication.”
Visit this article with more about the 2025 Medal winners from the Utah Innovation Center: Celebrating Utah’s Brightest Minds in Innovation and Research
An image of the Governor’s Medal in Science and Technology, courtesy of GOEO
Academic/Research — Dr. M. Denise Dearing
Dr. Denise Dearing is a renowned ecologist whose groundbreaking research and leadership have positioned 
Utah as a leader in scientific innovation. As the inaugural associate dean for research and later chair of the Department of Biology at the University of Utah, she played a key role in its transformation into the School of Biological Sciences. Named a distinguished professor and recipient of numerous honors — including the Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award and the C. Hart Merriam Award — she has published over 180 peer-reviewed papers with more than 11,500 citations. Her contributions continue to inspire students, peers, and future scientists.
Industry — Individual: Mr. Sidney J. Green
Sidney Green is an engineer 
and entrepreneur who helped shape Utah’s high-tech industry by founding TerraTek and establishing the state as a leader in geomechanics analysis. He served on the Utah Science Council, was the founding chair of the Utah Technology Finance Corporation, and was elected to the National Academy of Engineering in 1994 — one of only 15 Utahns to receive the honor. Green holds 24 patents, has published 119 peer-reviewed papers, and is internationally recognized for his technical achievements and contributions to science and engineering in Utah.
K-12 Education — Dr. Nicola Hack
Dr. Nicola Hack began her career as a research scientist with a Ph.D. in developmental neurobiology before turning to education to address the need 
for early STEM learning. She helped launch a science-focused charter school and has since led efforts to expand interdisciplinary, science-based education. Her leadership has created opportunities for students and supported the development of future educators, reflecting her commitment to equity, excellence, and innovation in STEM education.
This year’s Medal winners with past medalists and the Lt. Governor.
Nicole and Brad so proud to be with such an amazing group of people! What a delight.
Mr. Green, LG Henderson and Linda Cabrales
Dr. Deering addressing the guests.
Lt. Governor Henderson addressing the group.
Here the medalists, past and present, are gather with Lt. Governor Henderson for the group photo.
To learn more about the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology including the list of past recipients) visit the Utah Innovation Center.
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