The National Leadership Awards, are presented annually at AGA’s National Leadership Training (NLT). These awards primarily to recognize individuals for their contribution to the government financial management profession. The National Leadership Awards are: 

• Elmer Staats Award (Federal)
• Distinguished Federal Leadership Award (Federal)
• Excellence in Government Leadership Award (State/Local) 
• William R. Snodgrass Distinguished Leadership Award (State) 
• Distinguished Local Government Leadership Award (Local) 
• Andy Barr Award (Private Sector) 
• Private Sector Financial Excellence Award ( Private Sector) 
• Eleanor Clark Leadership Award (Public and Private)

Nomination Information

• AGA chapters, individuals, or government units may make nominations. An AGA chapter may only nominate one individual for each award. If you are making the nomination on behalf of a chapter, you must be authorized to do so as a representative of the chapter. Chapters may contact awards@agacgfm.org for examples of successful chapter NLT award entries. 
• Please note, that all applications require a professional high-resolution headshot to submit your application. 
• All applicants will be notified of the National Awards Committee’s decision approximately by January 21, 2026. 
• The National Leadership Training Awards will take place on February 18-19, 2026.