SWANA Accepting Nominations for Professional Awards

Annual Awards Recognize Individuals for Contributions to the Industry and SWANA

SWANA’s annual Professional Achievement Awards Program recognizes individuals and their organizations for their contributions to the Association, to solid waste management and public health/environmental protection. Each year we ask Chapters, members and staff to nominate individuals for the following awards: This is your opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of SWANA members and other respected professionals in your chapters, divisions, and organization.

Robert L. Lawrence Distinguished Service Award: The Robert L. Lawrence Distinguished Service Award is SWANA’s highest recognition to an individual within the field of solid waste management. This award can be given to a member or non-member of the Association but is not given every year. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding personal and professional achievement and an award reflects a remarkable level of service, achievements, and contributions to the industry and community.

Professional Achievement Award: Given annually, this award recognizes SWANA members for valuable service and exemplary contributions to the Association, the individual’s employing organization, and the field of solid waste management. The length, depth, and breadth of continue contributions and services to the Association and field of solid waste management are considered in the selection. Up to four awards may be given – one each to a public, private, small business, and retired SWANA member.

Life Member Award: Consideration for the Association's Life Member Award includes an individual's length of service and commitment to the Association, service and support to Chapter(s) or technical divisions, superior commitment and service to their employer, long term involvement in the field of municipal solid waste management in general, and the significance of contributions to the Association and the industry.

SWANA can give no more than one Life Member Award (in addition to recognizing its Past President), in any year. Members, chapters and technical divisions can recommend candidates for consideration. The award is subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. Life members have full membership status, without charge to the Life Member, in the Association and the chapter in any state or province where they live after award.

Honorary Membership Award: This award may be presented to non-members and SWANA staff for continuous and significant contributions to the field of environmental protection, particularly in North America, with a preference to those working in the area of municipal solid waste management. The nomination of candidates who have been supportive of and instrumental in the conduct of SWANA’s mission, directly or indirectly, are particularly encouraged. Only one honorary award may be given each year, subject to Board approval.

Nomination forms are available through SWANA’s website or by contacting Sara Bixby. All nominations must be received at the Association Offices no later than April 28, 2023. Nominees are reviewed by the International Awards Committee, which presents recommendations to the Board. All 2023 awards will be presented in conjunction with WASTECON^® 2023, which will be held Sept. 27–29, 2023 in Boston, MA.