The Ray Center annually recognizes Iowans who show the Six Pillars of CHARACTER COUNTS: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. Since 2005, the organization has recognized more than 100 Iowans for showing good character.
The 2019 Iowa Character Awards are presented by Hy-Vee, KDSM-TV, CJM Financial and The Des Moines Register.
The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, Iowa’s home for the CHARACTER COUNTS! And Excellence with Integrity programs, provides character and leadership development strategies to improve civility and develop ethical leaders throughout the world. The Ray Center honors two of Drake’s most respected alumni—Robert D. and Billie Ray—whose humanitarian efforts, character, and leadership set an inspirational example for multiple generations.