Philosophy and Purpose: Nancy McKinley, CSAP President 2001, was the embodiment of a selfless volunteer dedicated to promoting the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology, and supporting those who had chosen one of these professions as their career.  This award is intended to recognize a member of a speech-language and hearing association for his or her exemplary contributions to their speech and hearing association (SHA).   This individual should have demonstrated selfless dedication and commitment to the development of an initiative or program designed to promote the work of the SHA or professionals in the field of communication sciences and disorders.

Criteria for Selection: Leadership in the development of a program initiative within the SHA which was established to address an identified need within the state or the SHA.  Examples include, but are not limited to: 

• increasing membership in the SHA 
• addressing shortages within the field, including initiatives for outreach to students and retention of professionals
• creating legislative activity programs 

• enhancing consumer awareness of the professions of speech-language pathology and audiology  

• providing support to professionals in the field in terms of workload issues

• establishing partnerships with media, businesses, related associations or other organizations for the purpose of consumer outreach or other benefit to the professions 

• designing innovative communication programs to promote the professions and increase consumer awareness, including the development of web programs 

• promoting leadership development within the SHA 

• creating outreach programs for employers designed to support  professional members working within those agencies or organizations 

• other programs/activities which incorporate the spirit of this award

• The program(s) developed by the individual who is being nominated must have proven to be sustainable as judged by measurable outcomes, including but not limited to demonstration that the program has been in operation for at least two years, and evidence of impact on enhancing the mission of the SHA.  Sustainability is evidenced by length of time in operation, stable source of funding commitment from the SHA, specific impact on professionals and/or consumers, and establishment of program continuity. 

• The individual who is being nominated must have served on the board of directors and/or have been a committee member of the SHA within the past five years. The award is intended to recognize recent leaders in SHAs.