2 Utahns are honored by U.S. governors

Two Utahns were honored by the National Governors Association for their contributions to state government.

Scott Anderson, president and CEO of Zions Bank and a promoter of the state's USTAR science and technology research initiative, and Beverley Sorenson, founder of Art Works for Kids, Utah, received the association's Distinguished Service to State Government Awards.

Anderson and Sorenson were presented with the awards on Sunday by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. at the association's annual meeting in Philadelphia. Eight people received theawards.

Huntsman praised Anderson for his "hands-on approach, his ability to bring people together and his commitment to excellence" and Sorenson for her "dedication, passion and tireless efforts to enhance arts education" for Utah's young people.

The national awards, established in 1976, are presented annually. Three awards go to state officials, three to private citizens and two to those involved in the arts. Anderson won in the private citizen category and Sorenson in the arts category.