Nominees for the Estrella Award must demonstrate sustained and meaningful contributions to the association profession over a period of more than five years. Nominees must be currently employed by an association, a nonprofit organization, or an association management company. Leadership experience may be gained across multiple organizations and is not required to be with a single employer.

All awards require self-nomination. To participate, applicants must complete the nomination form for the desired award and ensure all required letters of support are submitted simultaneously.

Applications must be submitted through the online form, and all supporting materials are due by June 1, 2026.

Late submissions will not be considered.

• Applicant contact information

• Applicant resume or cv

• Short-Answer prompts of up to 250 words offering evidence of the following:

  • A record of sustained, positive leadership contributions over time.

  • Demonstrated a lasting impact on the growth and advancement of their association and the association profession.

  • Demonstrated leadership involvement at multiple levels throughout their association career.

  • Demonstrated leadership contributions sustained over a period of five years or more.

  • Contributions resulting in measurable change within the association and the association profession.

  • Created opportunities for meaningful change within the nominee’s association and the association profession.

• Two endorsement letters of up to 500 words using the Estrella Award Endorser Letter template uploaded by the applicant. 

• Acknowledgement of AI Tools.