Chapter Awards

NASW Montana Spotlight Awards

The NASW Montana Spotlight Awards honor the heart, dedication, and impact of social workers across our state. These awards celebrate the diversity and unwavering commitment of social workers who show up every day to serve individuals, families, and communities. This recognition shines a light on their resilience and determination, and the vital role they play in building a more just and supportive world.

Award Categories & Timeline

• There are six awards/categories:
  • CLICK HERE to View Details of Each Award.
• Nominations open June 1st, 2025
• Nominations close July 31st, 2025
• Winners announced Fall 2025 

Award Eligibility

Nominees Must:
• Hold a BSW or MSW from an accredited school of social work. (Exception: Student Social Worker of the Year Award, see criteria in award details)
• Reside, work or currently attend school in the State of Montana.
• Align with and abide by the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Reflect the Mission, Vision, and Values of NASW Montana.

Important to note:
• Self-Nominations are allowed and highly encouraged.
• Nominees do not need to be NASW members to be nominated.
• Nominees do not need to be Licensed Social Workers (except for the Clinical Social Worker of the Year Award - see criteria in award details)

Nomination Procedure

Note: Online nominations require a (free) Google Account. If you do not have a Google Account, please contact Lexi Laird for submitting a nomination via email. Individuals may be nominated for more than one award. Follow the below steps for each award nomination:

Nominating Yourself

1. Identify the award you plan to nominate yourself for and ensure your eligibility.
2. Have the following prepared and ready to upload:
   • A personal statement - (500 words max, word, or .PDF file)
   • A current resume or vita (word or .PDF file)
   • Optional, but highly encouraged: one letter of support from a colleague, supervisor, mentor, or community partner who can speak to your impact and contributions. (500 words max, word, or .PDF file, please avoid family members)
     • Submitting a letter of support can strengthen your nomination and increase your chances of being selected. only submit one letter or support, any additional letters will not be accepted.
3. Click here to complete the nomination form and submit your prepared documents.

Nominating Someone Else

1. Identify the award you plan to nominate someone for and ensure your nominee's eligibility.
2. Inform your nominee of your nomination intentions and encourage them to have a current resume ready.
   • NASW-MT will contact eligible nominees to collect their resume or vita after nominations close.
3. Know the nominee's basic contact information and place of employment.
4. Have the following prepared and ready to upload:
   • A written nomination letter - (500 words max, word, or .PDF file)
   • Optional, but highly encouraged: one letter of support from another colleague, supervisor, mentor, or community partner who can speak to the nominee's impact and contributions. (500 words max, word, or .PDF file, please avoid family members)
     • Submitting a letter of support can strengthen the nomination and increase the chances of the nominee being selected. only submit one letter or support, any additional letters will not be accepted.
5. Click here to complete the nomination form and submit the prepared documents.


Questions?

Please Email Lexi Laird, Membership and Outreach Committee Chair.