NASW-MT Chapter Awards

Montana Spotlight Awards

Our Spotlight Awards recognize the outstanding work of all levels of social workers across Montana. These awards celebrate the diversity and heart of social workers and highlight the incredible versatility, dedication, and commitment we bring to communities across Montana.

Award Eligibility

All Award Nominees Must:

1. Hold a BSW or MSW from an accredited school or social work (n/a for the student award).
2. Demonstrate making a difference in such areas as:
   1. Social work practice
   2. Advocacy
   3. Program development
   4. Administration and Research
      
3. Demonstrate outstanding leadership and initiative.
4. Contribute to a positive image for the social work profession.
5. Abide by the NASW Code of Ethics.
6. Not be currently be employed by or serving on the NASW-MT Board of Directors.

Some awards require additional eligibility requirements. Please these listed below each Award Category.

Award Categories

Social Worker of the Year
The Social Worker of the Year Award honors a member of the social work profession who exemplifies the highest standards of the field through their exceptional accomplishments. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to improving the lives of individuals and communities. Recipients of this award have made significant contributions in areas such as advocacy, social policy, program development, and direct practice. Their work not only advances the profession but also has a profound impact on the well-being of those they serve. By celebrating these achievements, the award highlights the vital role of social workers in fostering positive change and promoting social justice.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• None

School Social Worker of the Year 
The School Social Worker of the Year award honors an individual who exemplifies the highest professional standards in school social work. This prestigious award recognizes a social worker who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and service within the school community. Recipients of this award have made significant contributions to the well-being of students and families, showing exceptional commitment to advocacy, support, and the promotion of a positive school environment. By celebrating these achievements, the award highlights the vital role of school social workers in fostering student success and enhancing the overall educational experience.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• None

Student Social Worker of the Year
The Student Social Worker of the Year award honors a social work student who exemplifies the highest standards of the profession through their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to social justice. This prestigious award recognizes students who have made outstanding contributions to their school, community, and the field of social work. Recipients of this award demonstrate exceptional dedication to their studies and practical training, actively engage in community service, and advocate for the well-being of individuals and communities. By celebrating these achievements, the award highlights the vital role of emerging social workers in fostering positive change and promoting the values of the profession.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be actively enrolled as a BSW or MSW student at an accredited college or university and in good standing during current award year.

Community Impact Award
The Community Impact Award honors an organization or initiative that has made a significant and positive impact on the community. This prestigious award recognizes efforts that demonstrate outstanding community engagement, innovation, and overall excellence. Recipients of this award have successfully addressed critical community needs, fostered collaboration, and created lasting change. By celebrating these achievements, the award highlights the vital role of community-focused initiatives in improving the quality of life and promoting social well-being.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• None

Indigenous Leadership Award
The Indigenous Leadership Award honors an indigenous social worker in Montana who exemplifies outstanding leadership, advocacy, and commitment to serving indigenous communities. This award recognizes individuals who integrate culturally responsive practices, uplift indigenous voices, and drive meaningful change in social work through their dedication, resilience, and innovation. Their contributions reflect a deep respect for indigenous traditions, values, and the pursuit of social justice.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Self-identify as a member of an indigenous community/tribe in Montana.
• Demonstrate outstanding efforts to advance the human rights of indigenous peoples and have active involvement in indigenous communities through advocacy, education, or service.
  
• Demonstrate leadership and innovative approaches in addressing social issues affecting indigenous communities.

Lifetime Achievement Award
The Social Work Lifetime Achievement Award honors an individual who has shown exceptional dedication and made significant contributions to the field of social work throughout their career. This prestigious award recognizes professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to improving the lives of individuals and communities in Montana. Recipients of this award have consistently exemplified the core values of social work, including service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. Their work has had a lasting impact, inspiring others and advancing the profession. nominees can be active/retired.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Demonstrate a minimum of 10 years of service to Montana clients.
  
• Demonstrate significant accomplishments and contributions that have had a lasting impact on the profession and the communities served.

Make a Nomination

• To nominate yourself or another use this nomination form (coming soon!) the following:
  • A short nomination application form
  • Two-page summary of demonstrated contributions to nominated award
  • Vita or resume
  • Two letters of support
  • A recent photograph (photo will be used in various NASW-MT public relations publications)
• Application and information must be completed and received on or before TBD, 2025.
  
• If you have any further questions, please contact Nathan Stahley, Executive Director NASW-MT Chapter.

Other details

• Not following the guidelines or incomplete nomination applications will be eliminated from the selection process and late nominations will not be accepted.
• The NASW-MT Chapter Board of Directors selects and approves an award winners based on the criteria listed above. The NASW-MT will notify the awardee and nominator.