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MASAE Annual Awards Program

Recognition of Service Through the MASAE Annual Awards Program

Each year at the Annual Conference MASAE recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of our members and the work they do on behalf of their associations. Our organization is home to many association executives who have given tirelessly to the advancement of our profession or who are leading organizations that are paving the way for advancements in their respective fields. As an MASAE Member, take a moment to consider nominating a colleague for one of our awards. Nominations can be made at any time throughout the year. Awardees will be notified before the Annual Meeting at which all awards will be presented.

Starting in 2025, MASAE is introducing additional new awards to honor excellence in the association and nonprofit community of the mid-Atlantic community of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland. Members and Nonmembers are invited to nominate. These awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impactful initiatives, recognizing those who drive the success of their organizations and contribute to the vitality of the sector.

Eligibility:

  • Open to All: Awards are open to both MASAE members and non-members operating within the Mid-Atlantic region (New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland). Individuals, teams, and organizations that meet the criteria for each category are encouraged to apply.
  • Inclusivity & Diversity: Self-nominations are strongly encouraged to ensure a broad and diverse range of submissions. Peers, colleagues, or industry partners may also submit nominations on behalf of deserving candidates.
  • Organizational & Individual Recognition: Awards are designed to honor both outstanding professionals and organizations that have made a significant impact in their respective fields.
  • Past Winners: Previous award recipients may submit for consideration in future years if they demonstrate new accomplishments or significant continued contributions.

Submission Guidelines:

  • Nomination Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by November 1. Late submissions may not be considered.
  • Supporting Materials: Nominations should include specific examples, measurable outcomes, and relevant supporting documentation (e.g., data reports, testimonials, creative assets, media coverage) to strengthen the application.
  • Flexibility in Awarding: Not all awards may be presented each year. MASAE reserves the right to withhold awards if submissions do not meet the quality and impact standards set by the judging panel.
  • Judging & Selection Process: An independent panel of industry experts and MASAE leaders will review all submissions, evaluating them based on the published award criteria. Decisions are final.

Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to a dedicated individual who fulfills the “spirit” of the following criteria:

  1. Is an active member of MASAE,
  2. Is serving or has served as a volunteer leader,
  3. Works in a professional, positive and enthusiastic manner,
  4. Puts their own agenda aside to work for the benefit of MASAE members,
  5. Possesses the ability to motivate and stimulate others in their volunteer functions,
  6. Gives a sense of direction and acts as a catalyst to effect exceptional results, that benefit MASAE,
  7. Is a role model for others to follow, and
  8. Has a demonstrated track record of success and achievements in MASAE endeavors.
Click here to submit a Distinguished Service Award Nomination

Positive Impact Award

Positive Impact Awards are presented to organizations that utilized original thinking to successfully implement a project/activity and produced a positive impact on the organization, its membership, and/or its vital communities.

Click here to submit a Positive Impact Award Nomination

Points of Light Award

The Points of Light Award is designed to honor an MASAE member who has demonstrated a commitment to his/her community and the needs of others. Professional and associate members in the Mid-Atlantic Society of Association Executives may be candidates to receive this award.

Click here to submit a Points of Light Award Nomination

Visionary Leadership Award

Criteria:

  • Honors exceptional leaders at all career stages who have demonstrated vision, innovation, and transformative impact in their organizations.
  • Recognizes both seasoned executives and rising stars who have significantly enhanced operations, advanced their association mission, or shown strong leadership potential.
  • Evidence of mentorship, advocacy, or strategic initiatives that have made a lasting difference.

Reason: To celebrate executives and emerging leaders whose leadership and innovation elevate their organizations and inspire the broader community.

Click here to submit a Visionary Leadership Award Nomination

Event Game-Changer Award

Criteria:

  • Recognizes individuals or teams who have redefined event experiences through creativity, strategic execution, and meaningful engagement.
  • Honors outstanding achievements in event planning, from unique formats and themes to high-impact execution.
  • Evidence of increased attendance, stronger engagement, and innovative use of technology or strategy.

Reason: To celebrate those who push the boundaries of event planning, creating unforgettable experiences that drive success.

Click here to submit an Event Game-Changer Award Nomination 

Trailblazer in Tech & Digital Engagement Award

Criteria:

  • Recognizes individuals or organizations that have successfully leveraged technology, digital tools, or media (such as video and podcasts) to enhance member engagement and streamline association operations.
  • Measurable success, such as increased participation, stronger member connections, or improved efficiency.
  • Innovation in digital storytelling, automation, or AI-driven enhancements that advance the organization's mission.

Reason: To spotlight organizations that are transforming the association landscape through cutting-edge digital and tech strategies.

Click here to submit a Trailblazer in Tech & Digital Engagement Award Nomination

Impact Catalyst Award for Sustainability

Criteria:

  • Recognizes organizations or individuals leading the charge in sustainability, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Measurable impact, such as reduced environmental footprint, increased representation, and inclusive programming.
  • Initiatives that create lasting change in communities, industries, or organizations.

Reason: To honor changemakers who are driving a more sustainable, diverse, and equitable future in the association and nonprofit sectors.

Click here to submit an Impact Catalyst Award for Sustainability Nomination

Powerhouse in Professional Development Award

Criteria:

  • Recognizes an outstanding education or professional development initiative that delivers exceptional value to participants.
  • Evidence of innovative delivery methods, strong participation, and measurable outcomes.
  • Programs that support industry growth, career advancement, and lifelong learning.

Reason: To celebrate top-tier professional development programs that make a lasting impact on careers and industries.

Click here to submit a Powerhouse in Professional Development Award Nomination


Testimonials from Previous Award Recipients

Testimonial from Tim Bower, CAE, President, Bower Management Services, LLC

I was the proud recipient of the MASAE Distinguished Service Award in December 2019. Being the recipient of the MASAE Distinguished Service Award was one of the most amazing things to happen in my career. To be acknowledged by your professional peers for the work and effort you have put into serving a profession that has given me so much was amazing.

During my 25+ years in association management I have had the privilege of working with two great AMC’s and eventually started my own small AMC. I have worked with international, national, state, and regional groups and the work is so different each day that I come excited to help associations achieve their goals each day.

I was first a committee chair and board member for DVSAE (Delaware Valley Society of Association Executives). DVSAE merged with the NJSAE to become the current MASAE. During the process I continued to servs on the MASAE Board and had the honor of serving as President of MASAE in 2015. I engaged with DVSAE/MASAE with the intent of giving back but the volunteering I did gave me back more than I could have ever imagined. To me it is about the people that you spend time with at MASAE. I have so many people that I met at events, through board service or through committee work that I now call friends. These relationships have become as valuable personally as they are professionally.

Please look at who is in your circle who has worked hard to better MASAE, the association community and their colleagues. Take the time to complete a nomination for this same award that I was honored with in 2019. As I mentioned earlier being recognized by your professional peers is an honor like no other, I have received.


Testimonial from Sue Pine, FASAE, CAE

I was the proud recipient of the MASAE Distinguished Service Award in December 2015. At that time, I had the pleasure of working in association management within just two AMCs (association management companies) for almost 40-years. Like many of my AMC colleagues, I stumbled on the world of professional association management. I loved the fast pace of working in an AMC where I had the opportunity to work with both trade and professional associations. I learned the profession as I grew in my career from a clerk in the accounting department to Executive Vice President.

I was able to build the foundational pieces to my association management training attending local DVSAE (Delaware Valley Society of Association Executives) events. DVSAE merged with the NJSAE to become the current MASAE. During the process I volunteered on committees, spoke at educational programs, and ultimately served as the President of DVSAE. I engaged with MASAE with the intent of giving back and mentoring those new to the world of association management. I was anxious to share my passion for the profession. Colleagues that I partnered with at MASAE soon became friends that I still value today.

I encourage you to think about who you see when attending MASAE that might also be a passionate association professional willing to mentor and share their knowledge with others. Take the time to complete a nomination for this same award that I was honored with in 2015. I truly consider recognition from my MASAE peers to be one of the highlights of my successful career.

Mid-Atlantic Society of Association Executives
P.O. Box 518
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054

Phone: 267-597-3818
Fax: 856-727-9504
Email: office@midatlantic-sae.org

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