The purpose of the DRI President's Medal is to recognize those who have exhibited significant dedication to furthring the Institute's mission and goals through their time, support, or expertise.

The DRI President's Medal was instituted because, unlike the other University and Community College System of Nevada components, DRI cannot confer honorary degrees. Similarly, the Medal can honor those people who are not eligible to receive the Regents' Distinguished Nevadan Award, i.e., public officials, DRI faculty and staff, and individuals who may reside outside the State of Nevada such as sponsors, who support DRI's national and international mission.

Past Recipients

2008

• Nate Cooper
• Nazir and Mary Ansari
• Kenneth G. Ladd

2006

• Tom Schoeman
• Senator William J. Raggio
• KOLO-TV Channel 8

2005

• Nevada Power Co.
• Jim Kropid

2004

• Harvey Whittemore
• David Loeb
• Fred Gibson

2003

• Joe Dini, Jr.
• Rudolf Gunnerman
• The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation
• Troy E. Wade II

2002

• Dr. Art Anderson
• R. Richard Costello

2001

• Sue Wagner
• Paul Fisher

2000

• Fred Davis
• Lou Emmert

1999

• Jerry Cail

1997

• Sandy Miller
• Betty Stout
• Angela Dandini