TSAE Awards

TEXAS ASSOCIATION IMPACT AWARD

This award recognizes an innovative project or initiative created and executed by
a Texas based association within TSAE membership.

Texas based professional societies or trade associations with an active TSAE
member. An organization recently launched an innovative new program or
initiative that positively impacted its members and/or industry.

Applications may be submited in the following categories:

Membership Recruitment, Retention, and Engagement
Meetings and Events
Marketing & Communications
Programs, Products, and Services
Advancement of the Industry or Profession (includes advocacy)
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Criteria

Association Success – what did this project help the association/organization achieve?
Innovation – how creative or innovative was this project?
Impact – how did these impact members and/or the industry the association/organization serves?

Nominate

ASSOCIATION PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD

This award recognizes an association professional within the TSAE membership
who exemplifies leadership and achievement in association management.

This individual serves the community, contributes to other voluntary membership
organizations, and participates in civic and community affairs. They exemplify
best in association management by continually bringing credit to the association
management community.

Criteria

Made exceptional contributions to the management of the nominee’s organization.
Made significant contributions to the association/not-for-profit management profession.
Provided all-around leadership both within the nominee's organization and in the field of association management.
Current member of TSAE with active involvement and support of Society programs and services.
Additional leadership and service shown in the community.
Current TSAE officers, directors, Awards Committee members, and staff are not eligible for this award.

Nominate

AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR AWARD

This award recognizes outstanding professionalism and exemplary service
to the association community.

Recipients have significantly contributed to TSAE and its members through
exceptional service to associations. Exemplary contributions to the employing
organization and professional organizations further characterize this award.

Criteria

An individual member that has shown exceptional service in working with associations and is understanding of association needs.
Active involvement and support of TSAE programs and services.
Contributions to the community, professional, civic, charitable, and service organizations.
Current TSAE officers, directors, Awards Committee members, and staff are not eligible for this award.

Nominate

RISING LONE STARS PROGRAM

Identify 5-10 young professional/next-gen individuals that have contributed to their
organizations and/or industry in the early years of their careers.

This program recognizes emerging
association leaders in our state.
Candidates must be nominated by
a supervisor or colleague who is a
TSAE member executive or association
staff member.

Judges will consider the individual’s employment history in association management, achievements, honors,
and contributions.

The selected participants will receive a free year of TSAE membership and a free registration to the New Ideas Annual Convention.

The group will be celebrated on the main stage at New Ideas and featured in Association Leadership Magazine.

Criteria

3+ years of employment at a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) or 501(c)(6), or association management organization.
Current employment at a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) or 501(c)(6), or association management organization.
Plan to continue in roles that aid the future of the association and nonprofit community.
Exhibit characteristics that demonstrate continued success and leadership skills.
Previous applicants are encouraged to reapply.
Under the age of 40 as of September 30, 2025.

Nominate

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

This award recognizes exemplary service to TSAE through volunteer opportunities,
whether board/committee service, speaking, recruitment, or even authoring for
TSAE publications.

TSAE Volunteer Leadership and Staff submit nominations for this award.

Criteria

Contributions that significantly and consistently impact the advancement and/or recognition of the profession through service to TSAE.
Demonstrated ability and willingness to serve as a formal or informal mentor.
Demonstrated leadership commitment and involvement in TSAE.
All members, including affiliate/associate members, of TSAE are eligible for this award.
Nominees must have been a member of TSAE for five consecutive years.
Current TSAE officers, directors, Awards Committee members, and staff are not eligible for this award.
Self-nominations will not be accepted.