FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jennifer A. Russell 
(775) 684-5793
SOSPIO@sos.nv.gov

(Carson City, NV; May 7, 2019) – Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske has announced that the Advisory Committee on Participatory Democracy (ACPD) has selected the honorees of the Jean Ford Democracy Award for 2018-2019.

In the category of Education, the winner is Kathy Durham, a teacher at West Wendover High School in West Wendover. For the past 19 years, Kathy has taught 11th grade U.S. History and 12th grade American Government. She was nominated for encouraging students to apply principles of democracy to themselves and to their families, community, and country. She actively engages her students in real life issues and founded a civics club, “We Do Stuff,” to motivate students to be involved in their community.

In the category of Student, the winner is Connor Dandridge, a senior at Coral Academy of Science in Henderson, Nevada.  Connor can recite the Constitution and believes whole-heartedly in the power of voting. He has been involved in politics long before being able to vote himself, volunteering in presidential campaigns by knocking on doors, calling in phone banks, and providing general volunteer service to campaigns.

In the category of Elected Official, the winner is North Las Vegas City Councilman Isaac Barron.  Councilman Barron has long been an advocate for local youth, mentoring students as an advisor to the Rancho Hispanic Student Union and teaching students about government and politics.  Through his efforts, many of his students demonstrated such a strong interest in politics that they have gone on to serve with prominent politicians. 

In the category of Community Member, the winner is Dr. Sondra Cosgrove. Dr. Cosgrove is a respected voice in the area of civic engagement.  She has served in leadership roles for the League of Women Voters for six years and currently serves as President of the League of Women Voters of Southern Nevada. She believes that every community member should have an opportunity to contribute through voting, serving on public boards and commissions and providing feedback in legislative processes.   

Sponsored by the Secretary of State’s Advisory Committee on Participatory Democracy, the Jean Ford Award recognizes the exemplary service of Nevada citizens who have benefited their communities, state and nation through their participation and leadership in furthering the democratic process. The honorees will be recognized in both Houses of the Legislature on May 14^th.

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