Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County Distinguished Alumni Award

Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County (LBMC) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, which honors outstanding alumni whose leadership, service, and contributions have made a lasting impact on the Bloomington and Monroe County community.

Established in 1987, the LBMC Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes graduates of the Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County/LEAD program who exemplify the organization’s mission of cultivating leadership for community service and development. The award celebrates alumni whose efforts have enhanced quality of life in the community and inspired others to serve and lead.

Nominations will be accepted beginning Monday, March 30, 2026, and must be submitted by 12:00 noon on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

To be eligible, nominees must:

• Be a graduate of Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County and at least three years beyond their graduation year
• Not be a previous recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award
• Demonstrate leadership that has positively contributed to the community, workplace, nonprofit causes, public service, or civic engagement
• Show significant impact through measurable community benefits or by inspiring others to lead and serve

Self-nominations are encouraged and must be clearly identified as such.

Nominations should include the nominee’s background and qualifications, including leadership experience, community impact, and professional achievement. Supporting materials such as letters of recommendation, news articles, awards, or testimonials may also be submitted.

All nominations will be reviewed by the LBMC Alumni Board and the Distinguished Alumni Award Committee.

The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient will be announced on Monday, April 27, 2026, and formally recognized during the Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County Class of 2026 Graduation on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Woolery Mill.

The recipient will receive:

• A formal award plaque or trophy
• Recognition on the LBMC website and social media
• A featured profile in LBMC communications and newsletter
• An invitation to be honored at the annual LBMC alumni celebration or designated event

Leadership Bloomington–Monroe County builds a stronger community by identifying a diverse cross-section of emerging leaders and preparing them to shape the future of Bloomington and Monroe County. The Distinguished Alumni Award highlights alumni who continue this legacy in meaningful ways.

Submission Information
Nomination Period: March 30, 2026 – April 23, 2026, at 12:00 noon
Submit nominations by completing nomination form https://form.jotform.com/260606303237045 or sending documentation by email to [email protected]

For more information about the award or nomination process, please contact Stacy Bruce [email protected]