MGFOA Recognition Programs

MGFOA offers awards, scholarships, and recognition opportunities that celebrate outstanding service, support professional development, and encourage future leaders in government finance.

Highest Member Honor

Honorary Life Member

The Honorary Life Membership Award is the highest honor MGFOA can bestow upon a member. It recognizes sustained service, leadership, professional conduct, and meaningful contributions to the organization and the field of governmental finance.

Honorees are typically recognized at the annual Fall Conference.

Member Recognition

Member of the Year

The Member of the Year awards recognize MGFOA members whose efforts have made a significant contribution to the profession, the public sector, the public good, and the betterment of the association and its members.

Separate recognition may be awarded for Public Sector Members and Associate Members.

Professional Development Support

Conference Scholarships

MGFOA offers scholarships to help public sector members attend key educational events, including the Fall Institute and Spring Seminar. These opportunities support new attendees, address budget limitations, and encourage ongoing participation.

Student and recent graduate scholarships may also be available for those interested in learning more about government finance.

Student Scholarship

Pardee/MGFOA Student Scholarship

The Jeffrey C. and Mary W. Pardee/MGFOA Scholarship Award Program supports eligible Eastern Michigan University students pursuing studies connected to public administration, political science, public finance, or related fields.

Recipients are selected through the EMU Political Science Department and approved by the MGFOA Board of Directors.

MGFOA award recipient MGFOA conference recognition MGFOA scholarship recognition

How to Learn About Current Opportunities

MGFOA shares current nomination periods, scholarship availability, submission instructions, and event-related recognition details directly with members through regular association communications.

Watch Your Email

Members receive announcements when award nominations, scholarship applications, or recognition opportunities are open.

Follow MGFOA Updates

MGFOA may also share reminders and recognition updates through social media and other member communication channels.

Check the Calendar

Event dates, locations, and agendas are available through the MGFOA calendar, including information about upcoming seminars and conferences.

MGFOA members and leadership

Thinking About a Nomination?

Award nominations are strongest when they tell a clear story about the nominee’s service, leadership, professional contributions, and impact on MGFOA, the profession, or the communities they serve.

Members are encouraged to watch for official nomination announcements and review the details shared during each award cycle. When applicable, gathering background information can help provide a more complete and meaningful nomination.

Tip: Because deadlines, forms, and program details may change from year to year, please rely on current MGFOA emails and announcements for the most up-to-date submission instructions.

Why Recognition Matters

MGFOA’s awards and scholarships celebrate the people who make public finance stronger, from experienced leaders who have shaped the profession, to members serving their communities with distinction, to students and emerging professionals preparing for future careers in public service.

Stay Connected

To learn about current award nominations, scholarship opportunities, and recognition announcements, watch your MGFOA member communications or contact the MGFOA office.

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