The awards, sponsored by the Seattle P-I and Microsoft Corp., have honored community involvement in Washington state since 1977. The program was founded in 1972 by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sen. Robert Taft Jr. and Sam Beard to recognize the special dedication, sacrifices and significant accomplishments of individuals in service to the American people. The awards also strive to motivate new leaders in public service.
Five people will be selected from the nomination list to receive Jefferson Award medallions honoring their contributions to community service.
Spencer Nelson, Snoqualmie — Has been a Seattle firefighter for five years, after serving three years with the Phoenix Fire Department. When he arrived in 2003, he discovered that Seattle did not have department bagpipers to play at celebrations and funerals. Using his own bagpiping skills, he was the inspiration for the Seattle Firefighters’ Pipes and Drums, which now has 21 members from firehouses throughout Seattle.
See more of the nominees in the Seattle PI story.
