Peninsula College President Dr. Suzy Ames was honored on Sept. 13 by Gov. Jay Inslee as one of the distinguished recipients of the Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Award.

The awardees were celebrated at an annual luncheon, recognizing their leadership and accomplishments throughout the 2023 calendar year.

Ames’ nomination highlighted her transformative impact in less than two years, during which the college experienced significant growth in enrollment, improved satisfaction among students and staff, and a strengthened sense of community.

“Dr. Ames’ values of honesty, integrity, joy, and respect have made her an inspiring leader and a catalyst for positive change at Peninsula College, on the North Olympic Peninsula, and throughout the community and technical college system in Washington State,” said Mike Maxwell, former Chair of Peninsula College’s Board of Trustees.

The Governor’s Outstanding Leadership Award was established in 1985 to honor state leaders who exemplify excellence in leadership. Governor Inslee has since expanded the award criteria to emphasize continuous improvement, as well as pro-equity and anti-racism efforts.

“Recent years have presented new challenges, and our state agencies have met them with ambition, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to public service,” Gov. Inslee said. “I could not be prouder of how our state leaders have risen to the occasion and set a powerful example.”

Honorees were selected from a broad range of state agencies, offices, and commissions. Each year, a panel of agency executives reviews nominations and selects the award recipients.