Janet Osborne Receives State Award

Janet Osborne, director of Utah State University's Women's Center, is a 2005 recipient of the Women's Achievement Award presented by the Utah Commission for Women and Families (UCWF).

 

The award ceremony was held in March. Utah Supreme Court Justice Christine Durham was the presenter and Shelley Osterloh of KSL television and radio was the master of ceremony. Twelve women joined Osborne in the honor. The awards are presented to Utah women who have made significant contributions to women and families in our state.

 

The Utah Commission for Women and Families was established by the Utah legislature more than 30 years ago. The charge of UCWF is to advise and confer with the governor, legislators and state agencies concerning issues of importance to women and families in Utah. It serves as a contact and coordinating group to analyze state and local rights of women, men and families. It also serves as a catalyst for creation of needed services and programs for women and families of Utah. The commission focuses on matters that range from domestic violence to child care.

 

Osborne was nominated by Utah State University first lady Joyce Albrecht, Pat Gardner, a previous award winner and emeritus professor at Utah State, and Joyce Kinkead, vice provost for undergraduate studies and research.

 

"Dr. Osborne is a worthy candidate for this acknowledgement," her nominators wrote. "She represents the top echelon of women's programs at Utah State University.

 

"For the past 25 years, Dr. Janet Osborne has led with dignity, intelligence and grace," the nomination letter stated. "The success of the Women's Center — and the other women's programs on campus — is largely due to Janet's administrative powers, and derives in part from her persuasive and tenacious character. Janet leaves a legacy that provides a fantastic foundation for future generations who care about these issues that affect everyone. She truly has contributed not just to the success of a program but to the lives of countless women and their families."

 

This year's 2005 Women's Achievement Award recipients include Mrs. Mila Baldazo, Jan H. Bennett, Lilli DeCair, Rocio Guerra, Rose Ann Gunther, Karen H. Huntsman, Paula Julander, Karen Mecham, Jeri Openshaw, Osborne, Helen Oliveto Smith, Monet Steen and Nellie Frost Stolworthy. An Award of Honor was presented to Zions Bank.