Iris Awards will honor women of achievement

Nominations are being accepted for the first Iris Awards to recognize women of achievement in Southwest Washington.

The newly announced awards program will honor the tradition of the regional “Women of Achievement” celebration that ended in August 2010 after a 26-year run.

Three Iris Awards may be presented annually, for service in the public sector, service in the private sector and philanthropic leadership.

Anyone may submit a nomination. More than one person can fill out a nomination form for the same nominee or provide letters of recommendation.

Award criteria and nomination forms are available at Iris Awards. Nominations must be received by Nov. 30.

Recipients of the Women of Achievement awards are not eligible for the Iris Awards. A list of recipients is at Women’s Honors.

The Iris Awards are supported by Clark College, the Clark College Foundation and the Vancouver Business Journal.

The awards will be announced on Jan. 19, during Clark President Bob Knight’s 2012 State of the College address; they will be presented at a reception on March 8.