Olene Walker, Utah's first female governor, was recognized Wednesday for her service, energy and civic involvement — receiving the 2005 "Distinguished Utahn Award."

The honor is given annually by the Salt Lake and Utah Valley chapters of the Brigham Young University Management Society.

Speakers recalled stories, laughed and praised Walker's convictions and intelligence.

"Olene, in your life, you have set a pattern of service and involvement that will be an example to your children and your children's children for years to come," said her husband, Myron Walker.

Added former Lt. Gov. Gayle McKeachnie: "Principle has always trumped self-promotion or convenience with you."

Walker served 14 months as governor, having stepped in to replace former Gov. Mike Leavitt. She had served the past 11 years as Lt. Governor.

Friends, family and colleagues praised her long-time commitment to state government and initiatives ranging from education and low-income housing to tax reform.

Walker was key in starting the state's "rainy day" fund, a way to "put away money in good times so we didn't have terrible times," said McKeachnie. She also started the Olene Walker Housing Trust Fund, a program to assist with the development of affordable housing.

All was done as Walker approached her sixties and seventies. She is now 73.

"We have all been amazed at how she led all of us in working because of her high energy level," said McKeachnie. "She can't even say big words because it takes too much time."

Richard Kendell, state Commissioner of Higher Education, praised Walker for her commitment to education. "The governor has always been at home with any student in almost any setting," he said.

Walker has been an advocate of student and parent choice, helping promote charter schools and create New Century high schools. She started a campaign to encourage parents to read to children 20 minutes a day.

"Gov. Walker cannot be adequately described or depicted without direct experience," said Kendell. "This has to be a sensory experience. To hear her talk, her authenticity as a person is so evident and immediate."

Troie Price and Marc Arnoldsen, presidents of the Salt Lake and Utah Valley BYU Management Societies, presented Walker with a quilt depicting different areas where she has served: education, industry and government.

Said Walker: "Any of you that outlive me, you really don't have to come to my funeral. I will give you a pass. I'm certain no greater tribute could be given than that received tonight."

She spoke of the need for integrity in business and service. "There is no business deal worth sacrificing integrity to receive. In the long run, integrity is far more important than any amount of money or financial gain."

Walker also praised her family. "When all is said and done, they are the priority of my life."

James E. Faust, second counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was in attendance at the event, in addition to lawmakers, government staffers and members of the BYU management society.

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