Emerging Leader Award and Scholarship

NOMINATION FORM

Award Purpose/Goals

The Local Government Hispanic Network wants to recognize individuals who are emerging leaders in local government by demonstrating professional excellence and leadership skills in their organization and their community. 
LGHN’s goal is to identify and support professionals who have the ability to rise to leadership positions in local government and have demonstrated an interest in improving minority and/or disadvantaged communities.

Nomination Criteria

Who is eligible for nomination?  Early or mid-career professionals, including anyone who has transitioned to local government service from another field, and has shown mobility in his or her career. The nominee should also demonstrate active and sustained engagement in LGHN. Current and past board members are not eligible for the award.

The recipient will receive a scholarship for LGHN conference registration and $1,000 travel stipend to attend the LGHN Conference.

Who may nominate? Anyone, including members from affiliate organizations, can nominate an LGHN member for the Emerging Leader Award. It is not required that the nominator be a member of LGHN. Be advised that the nominator will obtain the nominee’s supervisor's signature of approval prior to submittal of the nomination.

Timeline:

• Monday, January 12, 2026 Issue call for submittals
• Tuesday, February 3, 2026 Deadline for submissions
• Mid-February 2026 Selection committee review of submittals; recommendations to the LGHN
• Board of Directors at the March Board Meeting
• March 2026 Notify recipient selected for the award
• April 7-9, 2026 Present award at the LGHN Conference