Iowa native astronaut Peggy Whitson has been named this year’s recipient of the Robert D. Ray Pillar of Character Award by the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University. Whitson, a NASA astronaut who holds the U.S. record for total days in space, will accept the award April 13 at the Ray Center’s All-Star Evening in West Des Moines. “Peggy is an inspiration to the next generation of leaders,” Drake University President Marty Martin said in a statement. “Her groundbreaking work encourages students to challenge themselves and pursue their noblest dreams, while demonstrating exemplary humility and integrity.” The award is the center’s highest. Past recipients include Norman Borlaug, Hayden Fry, Dan Gable, Fred Hoiberg, Shawn Johnson and Ashton Kutcher. Whitson called it a “huge honor” and added in a statement: “I really admire an organization like Character Counts! that promotes good ethical characteristics in our youth.” Ceremony details are available here. Read our previous story based on an interview with Whitson. (Insider)