2026 NASPE Awards Program • Call for Nominations

Submit a nomination

Help NASPE recognize exceptional leadership, innovative programs, and communications that advance state human resource administration. Nominations are submitted online using the 2026 NASPE Awards Nomination Form.

Submit a Nomination Download Templates Nomination Guide (PDF)

Want award descriptions and past recipients? Visit the Awards Program Overview.

At a glance

  • Call opens: February 25, 2026
  • Submission deadline: April 17, 2026
  • How to submit: Online nomination form + template upload

Tip: Download the correct template first—each award has different requirements.

How to submit a nomination

Four steps. Download the correct template first—each award has different requirements.

1Choose an award

Select the best fit

Pick the award category that matches your nominee, program, or communications effort.

Not sure? Start with the award summaries below.
2Download template

Use the correct form

Complete the matching nomination template for your selected award.

Most narratives are typically 4–6 pages (see template guidance).
3Attach requirements

Include what’s needed

Add any required attachments listed in the template.

Examples: endorsement letter (Leadership) or one-page summary (Innovative).
4Submit online

Upload & submit

Submit using the online nomination form by April 17, 2026.

Submit a Nomination Download Templates

Select an award category

Choose the award that best matches the nominee or initiative, then download the corresponding template.

Rooney Leadership Award

Recognizes an individual whose leadership strengthens state HR administration and reflects the character, integrity, and influence of Eugene H. Rooney, Jr.

Leadership impact
NASPE impact
Beyond-state impact
Download Template View Award Overview

Rooney Innovative Program Award

Recognizes innovative state HR programs that demonstrate creativity, measurable effectiveness, cost effectiveness, and transferability to other states.

Creativity
Effectiveness
Cost effectiveness
Transferable
Download Template View Award Overview

Eva N. Santos Communication Award

Recognizes communications efforts that elevate HR initiatives and demonstrate measurable impact, efficient use of resources, and potential for replication.

Creativity
Effectiveness
Cost effectiveness
Transferable
Download TemplateView Award Overview

Advancing the HR Profession Award

Recognizes programs or efforts that advance the HR profession through innovation, measurable outcomes, cost effectiveness, and transferability to other states.

Creativity
Effectiveness
Cost effectiveness
Transferable
Download TemplateView Award Overview

What makes a strong nomination?

Strong nominations are specific and outcome-focused. When possible, include measurable results (e.g., process improvements, service outcomes, customer satisfaction, efficiencies, or improved recruitment/retention).

For program-based awards, judges score nominations on:

Creativity
Program effectiveness
Cost effectiveness
Transferable to other states

FAQ

Frequently asked questions
Can I submit more than one nomination?
Yes. Submit a separate nomination for each award category.
Can I nominate my own program or agency?
Yes, as long as eligibility requirements are met and the nomination addresses the judging criteria.
What supporting materials can I include?
Follow the template for your selected award. Some awards allow links/snapshots. The Rooney Leadership Award does not allow additional supporting documentation beyond the required endorsement letter.
What is the submission deadline?
The Call for Nominations closes April 17, 2026.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email kleslie@csg.org.

Ready to submit?

Download the correct template, then submit your nomination using the online nomination form. Questions? Email kleslie@csg.org.

Submit a Nomination Download Templates Nomination Guide (PDF)