Leadership in the gold standard that we strive for in our association. There are many that carry that standard for the NIRSA with their good works. However, there are few that embody that standard. John Quincy Adams was said “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader”. There is one among us that we would like to recognize as that gold standard.

In 2003, The Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award was established by the Lee Wasson People of Color Planning Committee (renamed Founder's People of Color Planning Committee) to recognize those individuals who best exemplify the hard work and dedication that go into the continuing creation of a diverse and inclusive community. These individuals, through their actions and example, provide members a standard of excellence to achieve.

The award is the highest tribute the committee can pay to a member of NIRSA. It recognizes and rewards those individuals who have distinguished themselves as truly extraordinary and serve as an inspiration to all of us. One of the elements of the Award is to honor those who have helped further the goal to build a diverse and inclusive culture in our association by fostering equality of opportunity, encouraging diverse perspectives, and creating a welcoming and supportive climate in our association. The Award was created to further highlight our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Why Is This Award Important?
We value diversity and inclusion as social imperatives that are essential elements in our world future. It is timely and appropriate that we honor those who are furthering our goal to "promote diversity and inclusion" throughout our association.

The planning committee had selected Ms. Juliette Moore as the namesake of this prestigious award, because of her leadership, perseverance, and commitment to being "our social conscious". Juliette was one of the many bricks that built the foundation upon which our commitments to diversity and inclusion initiatives are built.

Who was Juliette Moore?
Juliette Moore was the epitome of selfless dedication. Throughout her career Juliette created a trusting, caring atmosphere that allowed all around her to flourish. For her actions, she was highly respected by those in our NIRSA community. Ms. Juliette Moore became the first African-American Female NIRSA President when she was elected in 1998. She was the founder of the POC, a long time NIRSA member, had served on numerous NIRSA Task Force and Committees and up until her passing she could be seen mentoring hundreds of students and professionals across the country. She spent her 30-year career in Recreational Sports promoting the NIRSA and created a legacy of excellence for others to follow.

December 10, 2023 is the deadline to nominate!