More than 200 years ago, the Corps of Discovery, composed of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and assisted by Sacajawea boldly embarked on an historic journey carrying medals of peace to the native peoples of the West.
In the spirit of the Corps of Discovery, I have recognized and honored stand-out Montana high school students with a "Spirit of Discovery" award. To be eligible, students must display courage and commitment, together with a spirit of discovery in service, scholarship, surmounting obstacles, or expanding or developing skills. This award is not necessarily intended for the student who is normally recognized for academic or athletic 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 can be achieved 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.
