Three Yukon government employees received the 2010 Aboriginal Employees Award of Honour last month at the Aboriginal Employees Forum (AEF) year-end gathering in Whitehorse.

The 2010 recipients are:

• Larry Bill – Environment;

• Fran Etzel – Education; and

• Sharon Kerr – Justice.

The award was established in 2009 under the forum's direction.

It supports the Corporate Representative Public Service Plan which speaks to fostering appreciation of all cultures, including the celebration and promotion of First Nations culture.

The award recipients were selected by the Aboriginal Employees Award of Honour selection committee.

Bill is described as the "go to” person for hands-on, field-based knowledge of the Southern Lakes trail systems, where he patrols the backcountry monitoring caribou herds.

He mentors new conservation officers and shares his knowledge and appreciation of First Nation culture and traditions, the government said in a statement.

Among his accomplishments, Bill is a role model for students at school career days advocating the value of education and strong work ethics.

Etzel is a graduate of the Yukon Native Teachers' Education Program, and teaches school in Ross River.

She has also worked as the vice-principal focusing on First Nation programming and partnerships.

Etzel is described as a devoted teacher who gives her whole heart to the children and people of Ross River. She works with elders to promote traditional teachings on the land such as trapping, snaring and fishing.

Within the broader community, Etzel has been part of efforts to resurrect the Ross River Recreation Society.

As a board member, she has been instrumental in securing funding for upgrading the sport facilities, and for building a paintball park and a multi-purpose sport court.

Her strong organizational skills help her run the summer youth leadership camps and town beautification programs.

Etzel also raises money for children's summer trips to music festivals, both in and out of Yukon.

Kerr works as a senior court clerk in the Department of Justice.

She is described by her nominators as someone who keeps her focus even in the most stressful situations.

She is responsible for training new clerks in Dawson City, Watson Lake and Whitehorse.

She has been instrumental in developing a highly competent and efficient workforce in the court system, the government said.

Kerr brought her experience as an RCMP officer into the government 20 years ago.

"Her attention to detail and extensive knowledge of criminal and civil procedures combine to make her an exemplary public servant,” the government's statement said.

"The Aboriginal Employees Award of Honour pays tribute to the significant accomplishments of Yukon government aboriginal employees,” said Elaine Taylor, the minister responsible for the Public Service Commission.

"Each nomination clearly demonstrates the dedication and personal commitment of aboriginal employees in the Yukon public service.

"I was honoured to have the opportunity to present (last) year's awards and congratulate everyone who was nominated.”