We are seeing the beginnings of a bicentennial celebration honoring Lewis & Clark and the "Corps of Discovery," who boldly embarked on an historic venture carrying medals of peace to the native peoples in this wilderness land. In keeping with the spirit of the "Corps of discovery," I have been recognizing and honoring out of the ordinary Montanan high school students with a "Spirit of Discovery" award.

I have presented "Spirit of Discovery" medals to students who display courage and commitment, together with a spirit of discovery in service, scholarship, surmounting obstacles, or stretching or developing skills. This award is not intended for the student who is normally recognized through his or her academic excellence or leadership, but is meant for the student who is excelling in ways not as easily measurable and not often acknowledged. For example, a student who is discovering what he can achieve in spite of serious physical set-backs; a student who has discovered the joy that comes through service to others in school or community; and a student who has discovered a different way of looking at an old problem.