Arizona LeadingAge

2026 Awards


We are pleased to share the winners for the following Awards, presented at our 2026 Annual Conference

AWARD WINNERS


Award of Honor  

This award recognizes the achievements of an individual who has exhibited an exemplary career of outstanding service in the field of aging.

Award Criteria:

  • Holds the position of CEO, Healthcare/Housing Administrator or Executive Director
  • Has a minimum of seven years of service in the not for profit community
  • Has enhanced the concept of professionalism by virtue of his/her leadership


Sponsored by


Michelle Just - Beatitudes Campus




Emerging Leader of the Year Award  

This award recognizes an individual in an administrative, managerial, supervisory or leadership position. 

Award Criteria:

  • Has developed and implemented a best practice in programs and/or services
  • Has been instrumental in the achievement of positive measurable outcomes that have made a significant impact to the organization
  • Has inspired and motivated staff, volunteers, residents and others through his/her actions, ideas and example

Sponsored by


Monica Gonzalez - Benevilla





Volunteer of the Year Award  

This award is presented to a resident, individual or a group from a LeadingAge Arizona member organization. 

Award Criteria:

  • Has performed a minimum of 200 hours per year of significant volunteer service
  • Demonstrated exceptional commitment to preserve the dignity, well-being and independence of residents in their community


Sponsored by


AllThrive365 Peoria Community Center Volunteers - AllThrive365 


Excellence in Service Award

This award recognizes an individual within an organization in a non-management position.

Award Criteria:

  • Holds a front line staff position, included, but not limited to, CNA, caregiver, diet aide, grounds crew, driver, etc.
  • Is seen to enhance the lives of residents or staff by the exceptional quality and passion of his/her work and through acts of kindness, giving and selfless care and support


Sponsored by


Tammy Soares - Sun Health Grandview Terrace


Innovation Award  

This award recognizes an organization for an innovative program or service on their campus. 

Award Criteria:

  • Innovative Technology Advancement
  • Innovative Environmental Design, including building design, construction, and/or energy conservation
  • Innovative Impact to Residents and/or Employees


Sponsored by


Glencroft Generation Program - Glencfroft Center for Modern Aging


Best Practices Award  

This award recognizes a "best practice" program or service that promotes and enhances quality of life for residents, staff and/or the surrounding community. 

Award Criteria:

  • Has developed a specific "best practice" within the organization
  • Has effectively led the change by acquiring collaboration and support from those involved to use the best practice during the implementation phase
  • Can demonstrate the metrics, improvements or success of using the best practice


Sponsored by

Beatitudes Campus - Beatitudes Campus



Certified Caregiver Award  

This award recognizes the achievements of an organization to create a positive impact in the workplace that is noteworthy and significant.

Award Criteria:

  • Demonstrate a positive change within the organization in advancing the health and wellness of residents, staff and/or volunteers
  • Provides multi-faceted opportunities for each individual to participate at a level that addresses specific needs
  • The change is designed with positive reinforcement strategies to motivate individuals to continue participation over time

Sponsored by


Star Watson - Terraces of Phoenix


Business Affiliate Award  

This award recognizes outstanding contributions and commitment to the work and mission of Arizona LeadingAge by a business partner.

Award Criteria:

  • Be a business member with Arizona LeadingAge.
  • Has contributed to the mission of Arizona LeadingAge by multiple avenues. 

    Sponsored by


    Nevvon


    Steward of Impact Award

    This award recognizes an individual in a leadership position who has contributed significantly to the advancement of the mission of Arizona LeadingAge.

    Award Criteria:

    • Has developed and mentored future organization leaders
    • Has been instrumental in the achievement of positive measurable outcomes that have made a significant impact to Arizona LeadingAge
    • Has inspired and motivated association staff, volunteers, board members, and others through his/her actions, ideas and example


      Sponsored by


      Tom Winkelman - Westminster Village


      Arizona LeadingAge is a 501(c)6 not-for-profit organization. 

      Arizona LeadingAge Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3). EIN-86-0737966

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