Utah Board of Pardons Director Michael Sibbett is stepping down after 15 years of service, he announced Friday. "It is a tough and emotionally draining position," he said. "I deeply appreciate Gov. [Jon] Huntsman's understanding that I am ready to move on to other opportunities with my family." Sibbett was named to the board in 1990. Three years later, he was appointed chair. "Mike has been a great asset to the state of Utah and a close adviser on criminal justice matters," Huntsman said. "We are very grateful for his years of service." Sibbett participated in more than 130,000 decisions during his tenure with the board. From 1999 to 2001, he served as president of the Association of Paroling Authorities International. In 2003, he was also a recipient of the "Ben Baer Award," one of the highest honors in the international field of parole. Applications are now being accepted to fill Sibbett's position, which is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate. For more information, visit http://www.statejobs.utah. gov. - Lisa Rosetta