While acknowledging that the nominees for the 2009 Frank W. Mayborn Humanitarian Award are representative of those who contribute so much to make Central Texas a better place in which to live, the selection committee announced this week it would not name a recipient this year.

While a number of nominees render important service to our area and set great examples for others to emulate, none met all the criteria and it was the decision of the judges not to present the award this year.

Because of the high standards set for this award, it has been presented only 11 times since it was established in 1991.

The award recognizes civic and humanitarian service at its highest level and honors individuals who enrich the lives of many through selfless service.

Sue Mayborn, editor and publisher of the Temple Daily Telegram and the Killeen Daily Herald, established the award to recognize individuals whose leadership qualities reflect those exemplified by her husband, Frank W. Mayborn, who died in 1987. He was a communications pioneer, civic leader and philanthropist whose work greatly impacted Central Texas.

Mayborn expressed disappointment that the judges were unable to choose a recipient this year, but the Telegram and the Herald, which jointly sponsor the award, will seek nominations again in 2010.