Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award Announced

As an Academy, we recognize that our aim is to create an environment where everyone is valued, feels like they belong, and are recognized for their contributions. To create a truly inclusive organization will require time, but we want to take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate an individual for their efforts to create positive change. This award will recognize outstanding contributions to Diversity and Inclusion within the Academy and show appreciation for their efforts and initiative on behalf of Academy members.

Award Criteria:

• The recipient must be an AAFS member in good standing and may be active or retired at the time of the nomination; and
• The recipient must have made an outstanding contribution to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within the AAFS. Contributions may be a single distinctive activity or cumulative activities over time; and
• The Awards Committee is allowed discretionary judgment when considering the all-inclusive criteria as   they pertain to an individual nomination and to base their recommendation upon objective evaluation of the accomplishments, knowledge of professional activities, and peer review.

Nomination Procedure:
Any member of the AAFS or a member of the Awards Committee may submit nominations to the Awards Committee. All nominations must include a letter detailing the candidate's accomplishments and the reasons the candidate(s) are deserving of the Award, together with a current copy of the candidate's curriculum vitae, and any relevant supporting documentation. All nominations shall be in writing and shall be submitted electronically to the Chair of the Awards Committee. The deadline for submitting recommendations for nominations to be considered by the Awards Committee is September 1.

Award Presentation:
Presentation of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award shall occur during the week of the AAFS Annual Scientific Conference by the Chair of the Diversity Outreach Committee.