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RWIC AwardsInnovations in American Government The Regional Weather Information Center was
selected as a finalist in the 1995 Innovations in American Government Awards Program sponsored
by the Ford Foundation and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University for
their work in developing a prototype of an advanced agricultural weather information system.
The Regional Weather Information Center’s “Advanced Weather Information System” was
one of 30 finalists from among 100 semifinalists and from among over 1450 initial applicants.
Innovations in American Government awards program strives to identify and celebrate outstanding examples of creative problem-solving in the public sector. Since its inception in 1986, the Program has recognized 125 innovative programs which have received $8.9 million in Ford Foundation award grants. The Innovations Program is widely renowned and attracts about 1500 applications each year from across the nation. In 1995, program eligibility was expanded from innovations in state and local government to encompass innovations in federal government as well. All units of government–federal, state, local, tribal and territorial–within the United States of America are now eligible for recognition and awards. National Governors’ Association’s Distinguished Service to State Government AwardIn July, 1995, Leon F. Osborne, Jr., director of the Regional Weather Information Center, received the National Governors’ Association’s Distinguished Service to State Government Award for his contribution to advancing the use of weather and information technology.Award of AppreciationIn 1995, the Regional Weather Information Center received recognition from Polk County for their support of County emergency management activities during times of severe weather. The award was presented on behalf of the citizens of Polk County Minnesota by Douglas A. Qualley, Director, Polk County Emergency Management and Rupert L. Syverson, Chairman, Polk County Board of Commissioners. |
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