State and local officials—the public servants closest to most Georgians—are often the least understood and least known public officials. As part of its mission to support good government, the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government, in partnership with GeorgiaTrend magazine, presents the annual Georgia Excellence in Public Service Awards to honor individuals who epitomize the values of public service by recognizing their exemplary contributions and distinguished achievements.

Purpose of the Awards

• To publicly honor outstanding state and local elected, appointed, and/or career public-sector service professionals;
• To foster a culture of recognized excellence in Georgia's professional public service, drawing attention to exemplary service and distinguished achievements in government;
• To help raise the public profile of state and local public service as a career pursuit while enhancing the prospects of future service in potential and currently serving public-sector professionals.

Award Categories

• State/Regional Level (one award): state officials (General Assembly, elected officeholders, and public agency professionals)
• Local Level (four awards): one (1) county elected official; one (1) county professional (nonelected); one (1) city elected official; one (1) city professional (nonelected)

Participant Criteria

Eligible participants are currently serving nonelected service professionals or elected public officials within state or local government (city or county government or other similar subdivision or agency, including special purpose authorities) in Georgia.

Award Criteria

The awards seek to recognize distinguished achievement in public service and contributions that have improved the quality of life in Georgia.

Particular consideration will be given to achievements and activities having extraordinary impact on public service delivery. Achievements need not result from individual effort alone, and inclusion of collaborative efforts is encouraged when the role of the nominee in them can be fully understood.

Some themes considered during the selection process are stewardship (effective leadership and management); a record of ethical public service; innovation in public service; promotion of citizen involvement; responsiveness to the needs of citizens; enhancement of productivity in public service; and contributions that transcend geographic and political boundaries. [Previous Recipients]

Nomination Process

The University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government works in cooperation with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia, the Georgia Municipal Association, GeorgiaTrend magazine, and other organizations to promote nominations from communities across Georgia. Nominations will be accepted from organizations and individuals through a simple process consisting of a cover sheet, a two-page nomination letter from the nominating individual or organization, and a one-page resume of the nominee. If you wish to nominate an individual, see the nomination instructions.

Winner Recognition

The award winners are featured in GeorgiaTrend magazine and recognized in awards presentations.