Gov. Jared Polis announced his picks for Coloradans who inspired positive growth for the state in 2019.

The Governor’s Citizenship Medals program was launched in 2015 by then-Gov. John Hickenlooper with five categories: Vanguard Legacy, Emerging Community Leader, Growth & Innovation, Public & Community Service, and Corporate Citizenship.

“The Governor’s Citizenship Medal was created to recognize Colorado’s remarkable leaders for their impact on their communities,” said Polis in a release Friday. “Our state has some amazing and courageous leaders, and it’s important for us to celebrate their efforts and inspire new generations to do the same.”

This year, Polis added a new category called Colorado Mountain Leader and awarded it to former Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, who passed away in June of 2019.

“His accomplishments in life were amazing, including bringing 3 Super Bowl titles to Denver as Broncos owner,” Polis said in June. “His legacy and impact on the state will be remembered for years to come in many ways.”

The Vanguard Legacy award for business leaders who contribute positively was given to Tim Gill, founder of the LGBT advocacy group the Gill Foundation.

The Emerging Community Leader medal for an impressive young student was awarded to Kylee Gomez of Antonito, who served as student council body president and helped found an Allies for Diversity group.

The Growth & Innovation category for entrepreneurs who inspire growth recognized David Brown and David Cohen, co-founders of Techstars.

The Public & Community Service medal for an individual who served the public was given to Barbara O’Brien, vice chair at Denver Public Schools who has fought for education reform.

The Corporate Citizenship award identified Aspen Skiing Company for providing entertaining mountain sports while preserving community values.

The six winners will receive their honors Oct. 12 in Denver at the History Colorado Center, with Polis, Hickenlooper and former Gov. Bill Owens in attendance.