SMPS Central PA’s annual Chapter Awards recognize excellence in marketing, communications, and business development who have achieved outstanding success as top marketing professionals. The individual awards recognize the exceptional accomplishments of individuals in our industry. 

SUBMITTALS ARE OPEN TO BOTH MEMBER AND NON-MEMBER FIRMS AND INDIVIDUALS.

Categories

MARKETING ADVOCATE

This award is presented to an individual who is a stellar supporter of marketing who does not work in marketing specifically or has marketing in their title. This individual is committed to furthering and encouraging their own firm’s or industry partners’ marketing efforts daily. They assist their team by going out of their way to understand the mission and efforts of marketing. 

Nomination statements submitted for this category should focus on the individual’s achievements and efforts and indicate how they go above and beyond the call of duty. We encourage you to nominate Firm Principals and Partners, sellers/doers, and collaborators who you believe should be recognized for their marketing efforts.

JEN SMYERS MEMBER OF THE YEAR

In recognition of the enthusiasm and commitment that Jen Smyers brought to our Chapter, this award is presented to an SMPS member who has been actively involved within the chapter. This individual is committed to the continuous professional growth and improvement of the chapter. Their efforts over the past year have made a marked difference in the chapter’s success, whether it is a difference that affects the entire chapter or simply one component. Nomination statements submitted for this category should focus on the individual’s achievements directly related to SMPS Central PA. The recipient of this award will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Eligible conferences include NERC, Amplify, or the Pinnacle Experience. 

RISING STAR (formally the Horizon Award)

This award is presented to a person new to our industry who “stands out in the room” and has been an SMPS Central PA member for two years or less. This individual has made a proactive effort to be involved in the opportunities offered by the SMPS Central PA chapter and has shown great dedication to the success of the chapter and their growth and development. 

Rising Stars typically engage with the chapter in multiple ways and look to utilize all that SMPS offers, but they also seek to give back. Nomination statements submitted for this category should focus on the individual’s achievements directly related to SMPS Central PA. 

SHINING STAR (formally the Keystone Award)

This award is presented to a person in our industry who “stands out in the room” and has been an SMPS Central PA member for three years or more. This individual has made a proactive effort to be involved in the opportunities offered by the SMPS Central PA chapter and has shown great dedication to the chapter's success and growth and development. 

Shining Star typically engages with the chapter in multiple ways and looks to utilize all that SMPS offers, but they also seek to give back. Nomination statements submitted for this category should focus on the individual’s achievements directly related to SMPS Central PA.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

The current SMPS Central PA president has an opportunity to present an award to an SMPS member who has been dedicated to the chapter's success during the past year. This category is not open to nominations.

Judging

The Chapter Awards are judged per noted criteria by the Nomination & Elections Committee. 

Schedule + Deadlines

All nominations must be received by November 13, 2026.

Payment Information

Nominations are free to members and non-members, and there is no limit to the number you submit.

Winners Decided

Winners will be announced at our Holiday Party + Annual Meeting in December.

How to Submit Online

Please submit the required information by November 13, 2026 on our application form here.

Scoring Criteria

The Chapter Awards are judged by the Nominations & Elections Committee and are evaluated based on the following criteria:

Cancellation/Refund Policy

Cancellations made 48-hours prior to the event will be fully refunded.  Due to our commitment with the meeting facility for food and beverage quantities, all other cancellations or no-shows will be invoiced for the full cost of the event.

Photography Disclaimer

Photos are frequently taken at our chapter events.  The SMPS Central PA Chapter has the right to use photos from our events for any purpose, including but not limited to use in publications, on social media, in the newsletter, promotional materials, or on our website.

Charitable Contributions Disclaimer

Although payments and contributions to SMPS Central Pennsylvania are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes, they may be deductible as business expenses under other provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.