Distinguished Service Award

The FAOG Distinguished Service Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and long-term contribution to the financial, administrative, and operational excellence of community foundations. This award honors a member of the FAOG community whose work has substantially advanced the field.

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Key Dates for 2026

  • Nominations Open: March 15, 2026
  • Nominations Close: May 31, 2026
  • Review Period: June 10 – July 15, 2026
  • Honoree Selection: July 31, 2026
  • Notification: Week of August 10, 2026
  • Public Announcement: September 2026 Annual Conference

Eligibility Criteria

Professional Involvement

  • Active professional affiliated with a community foundation or a related philanthropic support organization
  • FAOG member in good standing
  • Minimum of 10 years of service in the field
  • Not a current FAOG board member

Contribution to the Field

  • Demonstrated leadership, innovation, or mentorship
  • Track record of advancing best practices and strengthening sector knowledge
  • Meaningful engagement through volunteering, presenting, committee participation, or peer support

Character & Impact

  • Respected among peers; demonstrates integrity and collaboration

Nomination Process

Nomination Packet Includes

  1. Nomination Form (online)
  2. Nominee Biography (max 500 words)
  3. Summary of Contributions (max 1,000 words)
  4. 2–3 Letters of Support
  5. Optional supplemental materials

Who May Nominate

  • FAOG members in good standing
  • Colleagues from community foundations
  • Philanthropic partner organizations

Review & Selection Process

The FAOG Board of Directors will serve as a panel of judges, ensuring no conflicts of interest. Evaluation criteria include but are not limited to:

  • Impact on the Field
  • Contribution to FAOG
  • Leadership & Innovation
  • Legacy & Peer Recognition

Award Presentation

The award will be presented live during the Business Meeting at the 2026 Annual Conference in Salt Lake City. The honoree receives:

  • A commemorative award
  • Complimentary conference registration plus hotel accommodation for the following year
  • Formal recognition across FAOG communications

Nominations close May 31, 2026. Don't miss your chance to honor someone who has made a lasting impact on the community foundation field.

Click Here to Nominate