The NIRSA Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award recognizes those individuals who best exemplify the hard work and dedication that go into the continuing creation of a diverse and inclusive community. These individuals, through their actions and example, provide members with a standard of excellence to aspire to and achieve.
Why submit a nomination?
Lashica Thomas, Interim Director of Campus Recreation at Columbus State University, received her Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award in 2019. When asked to reflect on what it meant to be nominated for the award, she says, “I was truly shocked and so honored. This award means a lot to me but most important is what it stands for—to know my peers think I deserved that recognition was an outstanding feeling. I am so humbled and grateful that I am part of this wonderful legacy of Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award winners.”
The award is the highest tribute the Founders People of Color Planning Committee can pay to a member of NIRSA. It recognizes and rewards those individuals who have distinguished themselves as truly extraordinary and who serve as an inspiration to all of us. The award strives to honor those who have helped further the goal of building a diverse and inclusive culture in our association by fostering equality of opportunity, encouraging diverse perspectives, and creating a welcoming and supportive climate in our association. The award was created to further highlight our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Jocelyn Hill, Director of Recreational Sports & Fitness at American University, who received the Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award in 2017, encourages NIRSA members to submit a nomination. “It’s easy to say that someone else will put in a nomination for a person that you have identified but in actuality it never happens,” she explains. “Take the time to do it yourself. More than one nomination signals that the person is truly worthy of the award.”
Lashica adds, “If there is a colleague exhibiting the characteristics of this award then do all you can to get them recognized. Take the time and make it happen.”
Nominate by December 10
Nominations for the 2022 Awards are being accepted now and the nomination period will remain open through December 10, 2021. Consider submitting a nomination today!
Every year, the Association seeks to honor and highlight members who have made an impact by recognizing their outstanding service and achievements. NIRSA members are encouraged to nominate their outstanding colleagues and stellar programs for consideration as an award recipient or apply to have their facility or marketing endeavors recognized.
Nominations and applications are open now for most NIRSA awards, with many sharing a deadline of November 16.
- For more information about NIRSA Awards, contact NIRSA Leadership Programs Coordinator, Chelsea Hansson.
