Washington, D.C. -- President George W. Bush has recognized recipients of the prestigious Presidential Rank Awards for 2003. Each year, the President honors a select group of career members of the Senior Executive Service (SES), and Senior Level (SL) and Scientific and Professional (ST) corps who are selected for their outstanding leadership accomplishments and service over an extended period of time in some of the nation's most critical positions in the Federal government.

U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Kay Coles James made the announcement today that the President has conferred the rank of Distinguished Executive on 55 members of the SES, and the rank of Distinguished Senior Professional on 6 members of the SL/ST corps. In addition, 277 members received the rank of Meritorious Executive and 25 received the rank of Meritorious Senior Professional.

"President George W. Bush's actions highlight these exemplary leaders and confirm that these executives and senior professionals are some of our best who achieve great results and demonstrate a strong commitment to the call of public service," said James. "At this critical juncture in our nation's history, the American people demand and deserve only the most qualified leaders to work on their behalf. They are examples of the best and the brightest the Federal government has to offer. The American Civil Service is the best in the world, and these individuals represent the essence and spirit of service to the nation."

The Distinguished Executive may be awarded to 1 percent of the approximately 7,600 career members of the SES and SL/ST corps and includes a cash award of 35 percent of base pay. The Meritorious Rank Award may be given to 5 percent of the career SES and includes a cash award of 20 percent of base pay.

A list of the Presidential Rank Award recipients for 2003 is located on OPM's website at www.opm.gov/ses/presrankaward.asp.