May 2, 2006-The University of Utah College of Engineering will present the 2006 Distinguished Service Award to Richard R. Nelson, president and CEO of the Utah Technology Council (UTC) at the engineering graduation exercises on May 5, 2006. This annual award honors an individual for extraordinary service to the college and the community.

Under Nelson’s leadership, the industry-driven UTC – a result of the recent merger between the Utah Information Technology Association (UITA) and the Utah Life Science Association (ULSA) – has successfully addressed compelling issues in building Utah”s technology community since 1999. His contributions include creating the $100 million Utah Fund of Funds and passing the USTAR Economic Development Initiative.

Nelson serves as the vice chairman and president elect of the Council of Regional Information Technology Associations, and is a member of the Governor’s Board of Economic Development, Utah Capital Investment Corporation Board, the College of Engineering Industrial Advisory Board, among others. In addition to the award, the college will establish a $1500 scholarship for engineering students in Nelson’s name.