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Public Pension Communicator of the Year Award

NCPERS Public Pension Communicator of the Year AwardsThe Public Pension Communicator of the Year Award, presented by NCPERS, honors staff members at public pensions who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills; shown superior innovation and creativity; and created a positive impact with their communications or member services work in the preceding year.

We are currently accepting nominations through Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The winner(s) will be honored in person at NCPERS 2026 Communications & Member Services Summit, held in San Diego on March 2-4. Winner(s) will receive complimentary registration to the Summit and will be recognized in a press release following the awards ceremony.

How do I nominate someone for the Public Pension Communicator of the Year Award?

To nominate an individual for the Public Pension Communicator of the Year Awards, please complete this online form. You can either self-nominate or nominate someone else.

We strongly recommend reviewing the scoring rubric and FAQs below before beginning your submission.

Who is eligible to win the Public Pension Communicator of the Year Award?

Employees of public pension funds. The fund must be an active NCPERS member in good standing. However, you do not need to be an NCPERS member to nominate an individual. To verify your membership status, please contact membership@ncpers.org.

Can I nominate more than one person?

Yes, we encourage you to nominate anyone you believe deserves recognition (including yourself)!

Can there be more than one winner?

Yes! Nominees are reviewed against their peers in three categories based on the fund’s AUM (less than $10 billion, between $10-50 billion, and more than $50 billion) to account for varying resources. Nominees with less than five years of experience at their organization may also be considered for the Rising Star Award.

At their discretion, judges will select a winner in each category. Judges may also award an honorable mention.

What is the Rising Star Award?

This separate award category is meant to honor staff who have been at their organization for five years or less and have demonstrated exceptional potential and growth in their role.

How will submissions be evaluated?

Submissions will be scored anonymously by a panel of three judges, each of whom is a past recipient of the award. Please see the scoring rubric for specific criteria.

How will the winner(s) be recognized?

The awards will be presented in person during NCPERS 2026 Communications & Member Services Summit, held in San Diego on March 2-4. Winner(s) will receive complimentary registration to the Summit and will be recognized in a press release following the awards ceremony.

When will the winner(s) be notified?

Winner(s) will be notified in January 2026.

Who can I contact if I have additional questions?

Please reach out to communications@ncpers.org.

Who has received the award?