The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University has named Iowa native Ashton Kutcher as the 2017 Robert D. Ray Pillar of Character Award recipient. The award, the Ray Center’s highest honor, is presented each spring to an individual who demonstrates good character as a role model and reflects former Gov. Robert Ray’s lifelong commitment to civility and character development. Kutcher, along with fellow Iowan Dallas Clark, co-founded the Native Fund, a nonprofit organization that is committed to raising funds and organizing resources that can be used to assist the people of Iowa in their times of need. He is also the co-founder of Thorn: Digital Defenders of Children, an organization that uses technology innovation to fight the sexual exploitation of children. Additionally, he co-founded A Plus, a digital media company devoted to spreading the message of positive journalism. Kutcher will accept the award on April 8 at the Ray Center’s All-Star Evening in West Des Moines.