CALA Midwest Chapter Professional Development Award Guidance

Purpose

The CALA Midwest Chapter Professional Development Award is established to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of members serving on the Midwest chapter committees. This award aims to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of committee members who play a crucial role in advancing our chapter’s mission and activities. Depending on the chapter’s budget and the work completed in the past year, a minimum of two awards and a maximum of five may be granted.

Award Benefits

  • Recipients of the Professional Development Award will receive a certificate of recognition.
  • Each recipient will receive a $100 award for attending relevant conferences, workshops, or professional development courses.
  • Awardees will be highlighted on the CALA Midwest chapter’s website.

Eligibility

  • Only members currently serving on the CALA Midwest chapter committees are eligible to apply for this award.
  • Members must actively participate in committee meetings and contribute to committee projects and initiatives.

Application Process

Nomination

  • Committee chairs can nominate eligible members for the award.
  • Self-nominations are also accepted and encouraged.

Submission

  • A completed application form.
  • A brief statement (up to 500 words) highlighting the applicant/nominee’s contributions and achievements within the committee.
  • Optional supporting documents such as letters of recommendation or examples of the applicant/nominee’s work.

Selection Criteria

  • Commitment: Demonstrated consistent and reliable participation in committee activities and meetings.
  • Contribution: Devoted time and effort in planning and organizing chapter programs and events, including proposing ideas, implementing processes, and ensuring successful delivery with positive outcomes.
  • Impact: The nominee’s contributions have significantly advanced the goals and initiatives of the committee.

Applications will be reviewed by the chapter’s Professional Development Committee. For any questions about the application process or eligibility criteria, please contact the current chair of the Professional Development Committee.

Announcement

Each year, the CALA Midwest chapter will announce the nomination period via email. Be sure to check your email regularly for updates and submission deadlines. For a list of past award recipients, please click here.