One nominee per state is accepted for this award, and the nominee must be endorsed by the state association office. Criteria for evaluation include: organization and continuance of an activity program, significant and ongoing contributions to the field, years of both curricular and co-curricular service, contributions to the profession both in and out of the state.

This award included Theatre educators until 2022-23, when Theatre awards were separated and given their own award.

Read more about all of the most recent awardees here.