
About the Awards

Distinguished
Service Award
Recognizes members who demonstrate strong leadership through impactful contributions, initiative, and commitment to advancing human and organizational learning.
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Honor members who develop and implement creative solutions, new models, or pilot projects that advance learning practices.
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Acknowledges significant volunteer contributions and active participation in CHOLearning committees or initiatives by early-career members.
Updated 4.7.26
Important Dates
Entry Window: April 1 - May 15, 2026
Board Decision: June 1, 2026
Winners Announced: June 23, 2026
The CHOLearning Board of Directors oversees the Awards & Recognition Program.
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Professional Impact
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Demonstrated influence on organizational learning outcomes, including measurable improvements in learner engagement, knowledge retention, or performance metrics.
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Leadership in designing, implementing, or scaling learning initiatives that align with organizational goals.
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Scope and scale of impact, such as the number of people, departments, or organizations affected, and the duration of influence.
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Evidence of sustained contributions over time, including repeatable successes and long-term benefits.
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Collaboration with cross-functional teams to integrate learning solutions effectively.
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Innovation & Thought Leadership
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Introduction and successful application of novel ideas, models, or practices that address learning challenges.
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Thought leadership demonstrated through publications, presentations, workshops, or recognized expertise in the field.
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Creativity and originality in problem-solving and adapting learning technologies or methodologies.
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Adoption, replication, or scaling of innovations by other professionals or organizations.
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Contribution to advancing the broader learning community’s knowledge base.
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Service to CHOLearning
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Active and consistent participation in CHOLearning committees, projects, events, or initiatives.
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Leadership roles in volunteer activities, including chairing committees or leading special projects.
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Mentorship and support are provided to peers, new members, or emerging professionals within the community.
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Demonstrated commitment to advancing CHOLearning’s mission through advocacy, outreach, or capacity building.
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Contribution to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive community culture.
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Ethical & Servant Leadership
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Adherence to CHOLearning’s ethical standards and values in professional conduct.
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Demonstrated servant leadership behaviors such as humility, empathy, stewardship, and prioritizing others’ growth.
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Positive influence on organizational culture, promoting trust, respect, and collaboration.
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Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging principles in all activities.
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Responsiveness to feedback and continuous personal and professional development.
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Outcomes
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Quantifiable results linked to learning initiatives, such as improved performance metrics, ROI, or learner satisfaction.
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Use of data analytics, assessments, or evaluations to demonstrate effectiveness and impact.
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Evidence of continuous improvement based on outcome analysis and stakeholder feedback.
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Alignment of learning outcomes with broader business or organizational goals.
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Documentation of lessons learned and knowledge sharing to benefit future initiatives.
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Updated 4.7.26
Award recipients will be recognized at the CHOLearning Annual Conference and on the CHOLearning Website.



