2026 Nominations are Open!
Deadline: February 6, 2026
Award of Excellence
The National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (National PELRA) presents its highest honor—the Award of Excellence—to an individual who has made a lasting impact in public sector labor relations. This award recognizes a career marked by dedication, leadership, and success in building strong labor relations.
Pacesetter Award
The Pacesetter Award is presented by the National PELRA to individuals, groups or organizations who have demonstrated particularly innovative leadership in public sector labor relations. The Pacesetter Award recognizes those individuals who, through their professional achievements, have successfully developed a new tool or technique for use in resolving conflicts, addressing new challenges, or assisting others in their growth in public sector labor relations or human resources. Pacesetters are role models who serve as resources to others in the field.
President's Award
The President's Award is granted in recognition of an individual's dedication, contribution, devotion, and valuable service to the Association in fostering its purpose and goals. There is no application for this award and is selected each year by the Board of Director's president.
Foundation Award
The National PELRA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit subsidiary of the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (National PELRA). The Foundation provides educational opportunities and scholarships to practitioners and graduate-level students studying labor and employee relations or a closely related field. The Foundation seeks to provide financial assistance to worthy individuals interested in a career in public sector labor and employee relations.
