Distinguished Service Award

Purpose of the 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.

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.

Nominate Here

Nomination Process
Nomination Packet Includes:

Nomination Form (online)
Nominee Biography (max 500-words)
Summary of Contributions (max 1,000-words)
2–3 Letters of Support
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 not limited to:

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

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

Award Presentation
The award will be presented live during the Business Meeting at the 2026 Annual Conference in Salt Lake City. Honoree receives a commemorative award, complimentary conference registration plus hotel accommodation for the following year and formal recognition across FAOG communications.

Click Here To Nominate