Heidi Blair, 2015 Ethics in Business Award winner and UWF's Ed Ranelli, dean emeritus of the College of Business.

Each year, the Combined Rotary of Pensacola recognizes people who embody the guiding principles of the Rotary Four Way Test:

— Is it the truth?

— Is it fair to all concerned?

— Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

— Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Since its founding, Rotary has sought to promote humanitarian ideals in its membership. The Four-Way Test is the standard Rotarians apply to what they think, say and do, in both their business and personal lives.

Again this year the Combined Rotary of Pensacola and the University of West Florida College of Business are accepting nominations for the 2016 Combined Rotary of Pensacola Ethics in Business Award.

"We are proud that this will be the 14th year that the Rotary Clubs of Pensacola and the UWF College of Business have recognized Pensacola business leaders who adhere to high ethical standards in their business and professional practices," said Dr. Ed Ranelli, professor and dean emeritus of the UWF College of Business.

Criteria for the award are based on adherence to the high ethical standards of honesty, integrity and consistency in dealing with employees, contractors and customers, while positively enhancing the economic well-being of their organization’s stakeholders and providing jobs, opportunities and profits.

Criteria also are based on participation in activities that are beneficial to the community beyond the provision of economic benefits and service as a leader or innovator in the firm’s business sector.

This award is given annually each spring to one individual from the small business sector — less than 50 employees — and one individual from the large business sector — 50 or more employees. The award recognizes those who exemplify the concept of "service above self" and who work to build a positive sense of worth within both the business community and the broader community as a whole.

Last year’s award winners were Heidi Blair and Michael Murdoch. At this year’s ceremony Murdoch will speak on the importance of business ethics to business and professional success at the 2016 Combined Rotary Luncheon. The 2016 award winners be honored at noon on May 2 at New World Landing in downtown Pensacola.

Nominations must be received by April 1, and should include a description of the nominee’s ethical activities and address the criteria outlined on the nomination form.

Nomination forms may be picked up at any Pensacola area Rotary Club or downloaded from the College of Business website.

University of West Florida contributed to this report