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*Please note that this application platform, OpenWater, is separate from your SHSMD account and requires as separate login. If you haven’t used OpenWater before, you will need to create an account.
SHSMD's 2026 Awards Program
I have an amazing colleague. Which award should I nominate them for?
| Rising Star Award | Leadership Excellence Award | |
|---|---|---|
| # of winners annually | Varies | 1 |
| Years in strategy profession | No minimum, must be currently employed in the field | 15 or more |
| Years in health care industry | 2 or more | 5 or more |
| Years of SHSMD Membership | No minimum, must be a member when nominated | 10 or more |
| SHSMD volunteer leadership required? | No | Yes |
| Self-nominations accepted? | Yes | No |
Awards Timeline
| May 1, 2026 | Nominations Deadline |
| May - June, 2026 | Committee Review of Nominees |
| June 2026 | Recipients identified and notifications made |
| September 2026 | Announcement and recognition at SHSMD Connections Annual Conference |