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The latest Ponzi scheme to strike. Politicians being dishonest about their motivations or voting record. The continued fallout from the housing crisis.

There are headlines nearly every day about a company or organization that has made some ethical gaffe that leads to a loss of trust with the public.

What the media doesn't tout are the huge amount of companies, nonprofits and government agencies that work every day to uphold the highest ethical standards and serve their customers, constituents and patrons.

That's where the Utah Ethical Leadership Awards comes in.

The Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business, the Daniels Fund and the Community Foundation of Utah are calling for applications from businesses, nonprofits and government agencies that lead by example and hold themselves to principle-based ethics.

"It's important for our community to pay tribute to companies and organizations that exemplify ethical behavior and integrity in their operations," said Dr. Abe Bakhsheshy, director and professor of the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative at the Eccles School. "We're honored to recognize the individuals who espouse ethical principles in their organizations at the annual Utah Ethical Leadership Awards."

The deadline to apply is July 15, and the application can be found by clicking here. All applicants will be invited to a breakfast awards ceremony on Sept. 9. All finalists and winners will receive news coverage in Utah Business Magazine.

"The Utah Ethical Leadership Awards recognize Utah businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government entities that truly embody best practices in ethical behavior," said Gov. Herbert. "Utah thrives when our community members and businesses make principle-based ethical leadership a priority."

The awards don't only serve as recognition for the excellent ethical practices of Utah business, nonprofits and government agencies, but also as inspiration for future leaders.

"The David Eccles School of Business is dedicated to making sure our students not only get an elite business education, but also learn how to better themselves, their workplaces and the world around them through leading an ethical professional life," said Taylor Randall, dean of the Eccles School. "The Utah Ethical Leadership Awards are an outstanding forum to showcase for students and Utahns in general, the local businesses that make ethical standards a priority. The awards will serve as inspiration for years to come for the future business leaders coming out of the Eccles School."

Nominees for the awards will be judged based on eight criteria:

1. Integrity – Act with honesty in all situations

2. Trust – Build trust in all stakeholder relationships

3. Accountability – Accept responsibility for all decisions

4. Transparency – Maintain open and truthful communications

5. Fairness – Engage in fair competition and create equitable and just relationships

6. Respect – Honor the rights, freedoms, views and property of others

7. Rule of Law – Comply with the spirit and intent of laws and regulations

8. Viability – Create long-term value for all relevant stakeholders

Alex Eaton, executive director of the Community Foundation of Utah, looks forward to the applications.

"This is such a great opportunity to recognize and celebrate leadership in Utah businesses, nonprofit organizations and government entities that embody best practices in ethical behaviors," he said.

To apply, please visit this page.