Ortiz garners state’s top honor

By Thom Guengerich
New Mexico Tech

Socorro’s Tony Ortiz was selected to receive one of the state’s most prestigious civil service awards – the 2009 Governor’s Distinguished Public Service Award.
Ortiz, a New Mexico Tech staff member, is being recognized for his efforts to expand and improve the state Science Fair and state Science Olympiad. Since taking over as state director of the program in 2002, Ortiz has significantly increased participation among high school students across the state.
“I was shocked and surprised to hear I had won,” Ortiz said. “I’m very appreciative for the recognition. This is huge. Now, I feel challenged to do even more so that I’m truly deserving.”
Tech president Dr. Daniel H. Lopez said Ortiz is an exemplary choice for the state’s highest civil service award.
“Tony Ortiz is a tireless champion of education in New Mexico,” Lopez said. “His office is directly responsible for opening the world of science, engineering and technology to thousands of youngsters in the state. At a time when the United States is lagging behind the rest of the world in these areas, it’s vital that we have leaders like Tony to serve as leaders and mentors.”
New Mexico Tech has played host to both the state Science Fair and state Science Olympiad events for many decades. By virtue of his tireless leadership, recruiting and promotional efforts, the two high school science programs have exploded in participation. Both programs offer more than $100,000 in scholarships to deserving high school students.
Ortiz was also instrumental in bringing the International Science and Engineering Fair to Albuquerque in 2007, an event that attracted more than 8,000 participants and visitors to New Mexico and gave the state unique visibility and recognition. Lopez said Ortiz volunteered to co-chair the committee that organized the International fair, helping to raise money and generate publicity for the event. Lopez said Ortiz’ efforts on the International Science and Engineering Fair certainly played a large factor in the award.

Ortiz garners state’s top honor