The Jim Bray and Lillian Press Distinguished Service Award bears the names of two dedicated founders of the National Conference of Governor's Schools. They represent the loftiest achievements in the early development of governor's schools: namely, the establishment of the first governor's school and the incorporation of the National Conference of Governor's Schools.
At the request of the Executive Committee of the National Conference of Governor's Schools, both Jim and Lillian graciously lent their names to this service award, understanding the Executive Committee's desire to recognize their service to the national governor's school community. President's note: Since indicating his willingness to lend his name to this award, Jim Bray passed away after a long illness. We mourn his passing and dedicate this award to his memory.
The Jim Bray and Lillian Press Distinguished Service Award was established as an occasional award to be bestowed only on those individuals who have distinguished themselves over many years in their committed work on behalf of gifted students, governor's schools, and the National Conference of Governor's Schools. The Executive Committee of the National Conference of Governor's Schools bestows this award only when merited, not as an annual or regularly scheduled bestowal. The award is intended to represent the highest possible achievement in the National Conference of Governor's Schools.
In addition to receiving a plaque, each recipient of The Jim Bray and Lillian Press Distinguished Service Award receives Emeritus standing on the Board of Directors of the National Conference of Governor's Schools. Upon accepting the award at the Biennial Retreat or Conference, a letter of congratulations will be dispatched to the governor of the recipient's state under official National Conference of Governor's School letterhead, signed by the current president. In addition, a notation is inscribed in the minutes of the organization, to be maintained in perpetuity.
- Virginia Uldrick, 2003 (Inaugural Recipient)
- Bob Seney, 2005