Modern pioneers reap awards

Modern pioneers were honored for their legacy Thursday night, during the Days of '47 Pioneers of Progress Awards Dinner.

Hundreds of people attended the dinner, including Mayor Nancy Workman, members of the Salt Lake City Council and authorities from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

"The purpose is to recognize people who made a real difference in their community," said Scott W. Loveless, president of Days of '47. "They may not be the most famous or powerful, but they are people who have worked hard and made a difference in the community."

The awards, which have been given since 1995, are presented to those "who continue Utah's rich pioneer heritage." They are given in the following categories: Scientific and Technology Development, Health and Humanitarian Assistance, Historic and Creative Arts, Sportsmanship and Athletics, Business and Enterprise; Education and Posthumous Legacy.

Scientific and Technology

When James L. Sorenson was in school, his teacher said he was a slow speaker, would never be able to read and was most likely retarded. But like great scientists Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison, Sorenson did not let his teacher's analysis get in the way of his dreams.

Sorenson has 40 American patents for medical devices such as the paper surgical mask, disposable venous catheter, a blood recycling system and a computer system that monitors the heart. At 82, Sorenson is building the world's largest genetic-genealogy database, Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation.

Education, Health and Humanitarian Assistance

As one of the best Advancement Placement teachers in America, Donald E. Ward, an American history teacher at Alta High School, has helped more students pass the AP American History exam than any other educator in the nation.

A teacher for 32 years, Ward said he shows he cares about his students by attending their activities, such as band, debate, sporting events and other extracurricular activities.

Historic and Creative Arts

As a professional opera singer, Michael Ballam's work has spanned nearly three decades and four continents. He has 70 leading roles and contributed to 600 performances.