WILMINGTON - On August 4, 2025, the Office of Governor Matt Meyer announced the launch of a webpage and form for members of the public to nominate individuals for various Governor’s Awards. The awards are intended to recognize extraordinary Delawareans whose service, leadership, or other contributions have positively impacted the First State. Nominations will be accepted on a rolling basis. 

“Exceptional Delawareans deserve exceptional recognition,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “A stronger Delaware starts in our local communities, and we want to hear about the neighbors who are making a real difference or who have established a legacy of giving back to their fellow Delawareans. By submitting nominations online in a single form, residents can easily highlight someone they know who is helping our State thrive.”  

Visit governor.delaware.gov/governors-awards-nomination/ to nominate someone for consideration for one or more of the following awards:   

Order of the First State 

The highest civilian honor awarded by the Governor of Delaware, the Order of the First State, recognizes individuals whose contributions have had a profound, lasting impact on the State of Delaware and its people. This award is reserved for truly exceptional service, leadership, or achievement in any field—public service, philanthropy, education, business, the arts, or community building—that strengthens the fabric of Delaware.  

Potential Nominees: 

• Lifetime achievers or leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to the State.  
• Individuals with long-standing, transformative impact on Delaware communities.
• Public servants, educators, or philanthropists whose influence extends across generations.

Distinguished Service Award 

This award recognizes individuals who have shown outstanding dedication, service, or leadership in their field or community and deserve formal appreciation from the State. Honorees exhibit a deep sense of civic duty and a record of going above and beyond in their role or mission. 

Potential Nominees:  

• Long-serving community organizers, public servants, or educators.
• Individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership in non-profit or civic efforts. 
• Citizens whose quiet contributions have had a measurable positive impact.

Certificate of Commendations 

Awarded to individuals or groups who have accomplished a specific act, project, or feat that directly benefits the State of Delaware, this certificate is designed to recognize meaningful achievements that might not otherwise receive formal acknowledgment.  

Potential Nominees:  

• Citizens or students leading successful local initiatives.
• Individuals launching programs that solve community challenges.
• Contributors to state-improvement efforts, especially in areas such as sustainability, education, or public health. 

Certificate of Honor 

The Certificate of Honor recognizes individuals who have shown excellence in their profession, uplifted their communities, and served as role models in civic, political, cultural, or philanthropic spheres. These individuals help others succeed while advancing positive awareness and engagement across Delaware.  

Potential Nominees:  

• Professionals or educators who mentor and inspire others.
• Activists or cultural leaders who enrich Delaware’s diversity and civic life.
• Individuals advocating for equity, awareness, and opportunity in their field. 

Governor’s Award for Bravery and Heroism 

This award honors those who have performed a courageous, selfless act that protected or saved human life or property, often in the face of personal risk. It celebrates acts of bravery that embody the highest ideals of compassion, valor, and civic responsibility.  

Potential Nominees:  

• First responders or everyday citizens who acted heroically in emergencies.
• Individuals who intervened to protect others from harm or danger.
• Acts of bravery that reflect care for others and public safety. 

Honorary Delawarean Award 

The Honorary Delawarean Award is a symbolic honor that bestows the title of “Delawarean” on individuals who are not native to the State but have demonstrated exceptional friendship, service, or contributions to Delaware and its residents. 
 

Potential Nominees:  

• Long-time non-residents who have significantly contributed to Delaware causes.
• National or international figures who’ve supported the State or represented it positively. 
• Cultural, civic, or philanthropic partners with deep ties to Delaware’s people.

Governor’s Heritage Award 

The Governor’s Heritage Award is presented annually to an individual who has made a distinguished and lasting contribution to the recognition, preservation, and celebration of Delaware’s rich cultural, historical, or artistic heritage. This award honors those who work to keep Delaware’s stories, traditions, landmarks, and legacies alive for future generations through education, advocacy, preservation, or creative expression.  
Potential Nominees: 

• Historians, educators, or researchers preserving Delaware’s historical narratives.
• Community leaders or cultural advocates promoting the State’s diverse traditions and identities.
• Artists, curators, or archivists who showcase and protect Delaware’s heritage through exhibitions, publications, or storytelling.