Leadership development is one of LeadingAge’s highest priorities. We put a premium on unique leadership talent and, through a range of programs, help LeadingAge members discover and tap into their own natural leadership gifts to “lead from within,” as we describe it.

A year ago, we launched the new LeadingAge Leadership Award, to elevate and celebrate those in our sector who are in the midst of their own leadership journeys—people whose unique attributes make a significant difference in their organizations or local communities.

We know leaders don’t exist only at the most senior level, so we invite you to think beyond your C-suite. This award recognizes leaders at any level who play a critical role in ensuring organizational mission success. Who has a positive attitude and mentorship abilities that attract and retain amazing staff? Who turns innovative ideas into opportunities for team-building, for drawing the best out of other staff, and for bettering the lives of the people you serve?

Strong leadership capacity at all levels is critical to a successful aging services organization. And meaningful leadership skills are hard won—they are developed and strengthened over time through a life-long approach to learning and growing as leaders.

Last year’s inaugural Leadership Award winner, Pamela Garofolo​​​​ of United Methodist Communities, embodies both expertise in serving older adults—specializing in serving those living with dementia and their families—and also creating and nurturing a “culture of engagement” in her organization while building the skills of people managers.

What expertise, what inspiring leadership qualities, will this year’s nominees exhibit? Strong and diverse leaders are absolutely essential to building up our aging services workforce and preparing for future service possibilities and growth opportunities. No two leaders bring the exact same abilities and approach to their work, and we want the Leadership Award to highlight the wide range of approaches in use by dedicated professionals among our membership.

Take the time to nominate a deserving leader. Nominations are due February 4, and the requirements may take some time to pull together—examples of exceptional practices, letters of recommendation or support, or details of influence in their organization/community—so learn more today and prepare your nominations.

The awardee will be honored at the LeadingAge Leadership Summit in Washington, DC, in April. And for more on all three LeadingAge’s annual awards, visit our Awards & Honors webpage.

I can’t think of a more appropriate way to recognize a leader deeply committed to developing strong teams and leaders than to present their award in a room surrounded by aging services leaders from around the country. I hope you’ll join us.

Wendy Green is vice president of leadership engagement & development for LeadingAge, heading our leadership development programming and CEO engagement initiatives.