Two Greater Des Moines business leaders will be recognized for demonstrating exemplary character with the highest honor bestowed by the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University.

The Ray Center, formerly known as Character Counts in Iowa, on Friday will present its 2015 Robert D. Ray Pillar of Character Award to Suku Radia, president and CEO of Bankers Trust, and Rich Willis, dealer principal at Willis Auto Campus.

A selection committee of nearly 50 volunteers chose Radia and Willis for this year’s distinction, which will be presented at the Iowa Character Awards dinner on July 31 at the Meadows Events and Conference Center in Altoona.

The awards reflect former Iowa Gov. Robert Ray’s lifelong commitment to civility and character development. It was originally presented to Gov. Ray in 2003 for his exemplary character, visionary leadership and commitment to advancing the mission of Character Counts in Iowa. The award was then named in honor of Ray as the founder and board chairman of the Ray Center.

Radia has been a vocal advocate for the Ray Center since its inception as Character Counts in Iowa in 1997. As CEO and president of Bankers Trust, he leads the company with the core values of respect for diversity, corporate citizenship and community investment. He serves on the executive committees of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and Drake University. He also serves as vice chair for Bravo! and on the board of directors of Mercy Medical Center.

Willis’ personal character is reflected in how he runs his successful business, with a focus on honesty, integrity, faith, family and community. He makes significant contributions to the Des Moines metro area through service on the boards of directors of Simpson College, John Stoddard Cancer Center, and IMT Insurance. In 2013, he was named Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser by the Central Iowa Chapter Association of Fundraising Professionals.

The Ray Center will present 14 awards during the annual dinner. To see a list of the other award winners,