MSPC names Dirk Kempthorne Elevation Award recipient
- MSPC Newsroom

- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Mountain States Policy Center (MSPC) proudly presented its prestigious Elevation Award to former Idaho Governor and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne during its annual Spring Dinner, recognizing his decades of leadership, service, and commitment to advancing the principles of freedom and effective governance.
The Elevation Award is MSPC’s highest honor, awarded to individuals whose work has elevated public policy, strengthened communities, and inspired principled leadership across the region and nation.
“Dirk Kempthorne embodies the very spirit of the Elevation Award,” said Chris Cargill, President of Mountain States Policy Center. “His career has been defined by thoughtful leadership, a deep respect for federalism, and a commitment to policies that empower individuals and communities. We are honored to recognize his enduring impact.”
Kempthorne served as Mayor of Boise, as a United States Senator, as Governor of Idaho from 1999 to 2006 and as U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 2006 to 2009.
Throughout his career, he has been widely recognized for his collaborative approach to governance, his stewardship of natural resources, and his dedication to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation.
In accepting the award, Kempthorne reflected on the importance of principled leadership and the role of organizations like MSPC in shaping sound public policy. “I'm just so humbled,” Kempthorne said. "To have an award named an Elevation Award - it's about something higher."
The Spring Dinner brought together community leaders, policymakers, and supporters from across the region to celebrate the work of MSPC and honor individuals who exemplify its mission.
Mountain States Policy Center is an independent research organization dedicated to promoting free-market solutions that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and advance economic opportunity across the Western United States.
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