GOVERNING Magazine has announced that State of Utah Chief Information Officer J. Stephen Fletcher will be honored as top state government official for leadership and excellence as a 2010 Public Official of the Year. Fletcher has built a widely acclaimed digital infrastructure that supports shared services, consolidates redundant computer systems, helps remote workers across a large, rural area and, most importantly, has moved more services online than any other state, making Utah's website nationally recognized as one of the best in government.
Mr. Fletcher has also been widely recognized for his leadership in identifying innovative ways to apply new technologies such as cloud computing to government operations. In 2010, he served as the President of NASCIO, the National Association of CIOs, where he worked closely with the federal government to improve the way funding and services are coordinated with state governments across the country.
"Steve has been an invaluable resource as we have increased the availability of online services in an ongoing effort to better serve the citizens of our great State," Governor Gary R. Herbert said. "His leadership and professionalism have been key to this important undertaking."
In receiving the award, Fletcher acknowledged the Governor's support, as well as that of the Utah Legislature, in creating an environment that encourages the effective use of technology and innovation. "I look forward to continuing to work together to implement solutions that will benefit Utah citizens and bring new efficiencies to government operations," he said. "This award is a tribute to state agencies who we have worked with to improve Utah state government."
In its 17th year, the annual awards program recognizes leaders from state, city and county government for outstanding accomplishments in their agency, community or state. Public Officials of the Year are selected from nominations submitted by readers, experts in the public and private sectors and the GOVERNING editorial team. Among the qualities recognized are leadership, courage, innovation, creativity and good management. Award winners are profiled in the November issue of the magazine and on governing.com. They will also be honored at a dinner at the Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C. on November 18.
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Contacts:
State of Utah
Stephanie Weiss, 801-538-3284
Department of
Technology Services