EXCELLENCE AWARD CRITERIA:

This award honors an individual or group for their dedicated service to the NAYGN in one or many of the following ways (not limited to):

• Exceptional performance, effective leadership, committed service and enthusiasm in general

• Distinguished service in developing/conducting public education programs on contributions of nuclear science and technology to society.

• Successful leadership and devoted service contributing to the successful operation of NAYGN local chapters

• Provided avenues to enhance recruiting and retention of young professionals in the field of nuclear science and technology

• Provided professional development opportunities for NAYGN members.

• Played a key role in representing the interests of young nuclear professionals within the industry at industry gatherings and international conferences.

• Assisted in the developing innovative ways for exchange of information between generations of nuclear professionals

• Informing and educating the younger generation (high school, university, etc.) about nuclear science and engineering
• Unique act(s) that is/are aimed in attaining the objectives of NAYGN

This award recognizes individual NAYGN members who exemplify the pillars and mission of the organization through exceptional leadership or outstanding participation. Nominees are peer-nominated for their dedication to NAYGN's objectives and their impactful contributions to NAYGN events and initiatives.

This award recognizes local NAYGN chapters that demonstrate outstanding commitment to supporting the organization’s mission and fostering member growth through social, community service, and professional development activities. The award celebrates chapters that exemplify overall excellence in advancing NAYGN’s goals and serving the industry.

This award recognizes NAYGN chapters that have made significant strides in growth and revitalization, demonstrating a strong commitment to becoming active, innovative, and pioneering contributors within the organization. It highlights chapters that have recently emerged or re-established themselves by engaging members through impactful initiatives, activities, and programs. The award aims to celebrate chapters with the potential to become future leaders and driving forces within NAYGN.

This award recognizes a local NAYGN chapter's exceptional efforts in addressing Knowledge Transfer and Retention (KTR) within the nuclear industry. The award highlights chapters that effectively meet NAYGN's KTR objectives and demonstrate innovation or advancement in KTR practices. Special consideration is given to chapters that substantiate their achievements through references or external recognition.

This award recognizes a NAYGN chapter for its exceptional efforts in engaging and informing the public about the nuclear industry. It celebrates chapters that go above and beyond to create a lasting positive impression and foster understanding of nuclear energy’s value and impact.

This award recognizes a NAYGN chapter's outstanding commitment and impact in developing the next generation of nuclear professionals. It highlights chapters that foster professional growth through innovative programs and initiatives that contribute to the industry’s future workforce.

The Diversity and Inclusion Award recognizes a NAYGN chapter’s outstanding commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency within their site and community. This award highlights efforts that address key areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), lead initiatives to increase awareness, and foster an inclusive environment. Chapters should show how they have advanced cultural competency through educational programs or other measurable outcomes.

The Community Service Award recognizes a NAYGN chapter’s exceptional commitment to serving its community through volunteering, charity work, and service initiatives. This award honors chapters that demonstrate a significant focus on giving back to their local communities, showcasing the positive impact of nuclear young professionals. It highlights efforts in donating time, raising funds, and supporting initiatives for local causes, while reinforcing the beneficial role of the nuclear industry in local communities.

This award recognizes the sustaining efforts of an individual or group that best exemplifies the mission of NAYGN to prepare and plan for the future of the young generation in the field of nuclear science and technology in an innovative or unique way.

In 1999, seven people set forth to create an organization that embodied the spirit of young professionals in the nuclear industry. Their goal was to provide an organization that united these young professionals who believe in nuclear science and technology and are working together throughout North America to share their passion. This is the highest award given by NAYGN to an individual. It is presented to a member of NAYGN who exemplifies the efforts of the organization’s Founders.

To recognize an executive who has gone above and beyond to support NAYGN by 1) Furthering NAYGN with their executive peers, 2) Supporting both their local and continental chapters of NAYGN (including financially), 3) Spending time mentoring the organization. The Hairston Award winner is determined solely by the NAYGN Core and it is not necessarily given out every year.