Michael Connelly Commissioner | City of Bismarck
Michael Connelly Commissioner | City of Bismarck
The City of Bismarck's Human Relations Committee (HRC) is now accepting nominations for its annual Humanitarian Award. This award recognizes individuals and organizations that have shown leadership in human and civil rights over the past year, particularly those who educate, identify issues, and address human rights within the community.
This year, HRC has adjusted its timeline for nominations. Previously held in August with awards presented in December, the nomination period has been moved to earlier in the year. "The Human Relations Committee identified the disconnect of a person or organization recognized in December, for work they had done 12 to 24 months earlier," explained Sargianna Wutzke, chair of the committee. "By moving the nomination closer to the start of the year, this allows the award to be more connected to the good work being done in our community."
Additionally, a new category for youth nominations has been introduced this year. "There are so many impactful ways the youth in our community contribute. Maybe it is through a service organization or school project. Maybe they have just decided they want to make a difference," said Wutzke. "With all the directions youth are pulled these days, recognizing that selflessness and effort really aligns with the spirit of this award."
Nominations will be accepted until Sunday, April 20. They can be submitted via an online form on the City of Bismarck website by 11:59 PM on April 20 or emailed with all necessary information by that same deadline. In-person submissions can be delivered to the Bismarck Administration Department by 5 PM on April 17 at their location on North Fifth Street in Bismarck. Mailed applications must arrive before April 20 to qualify.
Last year's recipients were Sanford Health and Micah Olson. Sanford Health was acknowledged for initiatives aimed at supporting underrepresented populations in accessing preventative healthcare and overcoming health disparities. Olson was honored for his advocacy work related to disabilities.
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