NACWA is now accepting applications for the Excellence in Management Recognition Program.  The Excellence in Management Program acknowledges the significant achievements of NACWA member agencies in the utility management arena.  This program honors member agencies that have implemented and sustained, for a continuous three-year period, successful programs that address the range of management challenges faced by public clean water utilities in today’s competitive environment.

The Excellence in Management Award application reflects the Findings and Recommendations for a Water Utility Sector Management Strategy .  This report was prepared by an Effective Utility Management Steering Committee.  The steering committee was comprised of the following cooperating organizations, the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies; the American Public Works Association; the American Water Works Association; the National Association of Clean Water Agencies; the National Association of Water Companies; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; and the Water Environment Federation.  Its intent was to “produce a joint strategy to identify, encourage, and recognize excellence in water and wastewater utility management.”  The Steering Committee’s collaboration resulted in the identification of specific attributes of an effectively managed utility.  These Attributes mirror the objectives of NACWA’s Excellence in Management Program and have been incorporated in the application process.

This Member Update provides all the information that you will need to submit an application for the Excellence in Management Program.  Included for your reference is information on program eligibility, selection considerations and application submission guidelines.  The application deadline is April 8, 2011.

Who Should Apply for Recognition?

All NACWA member public utilities (both wastewater treatment facilities and conveyance systems) that can demonstrate continuous improvements in efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery during the previous three-year period are eligible to apply for Excellence in Management recognition.  Additionally, agencies that were honored with an Excellence in Management Award in 2007 and 2008 are now eligible to re-apply.

What Types of Programs and Activities Are Recognized?

Excellence in Management application submissions should showcase utility programs that move beyond “everyday” practices to exemplify a truly effectively managed utility.  Programs should demonstrate the utility’s focus and commitment to management improvements that address the range of management challenges faced by public wastewater utilities in today’s competitive environment.  It should encompass proactive utility management initiatives that exhibit continuous improvements over a three year period in such areas as product quality; customer satisfaction; employee and leadership development;  operational optimization; financial viability; infrastructure stability; operational resiliency; community sustainability; water resource adequacy; and/or stakeholder understanding and support are eligible for recognition.

How Does My Agency Apply?

Agencies may submit Excellence in Management applications by mailing the application package to NACWA’s National Office, ATTN:  Kelly Brocato, Director, Membership Development, 1816 Jefferson Place, NW, Washington, DC  20036 or submit it electronically to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Applications are due April 8, 2011. 

The Excellence in Management Application  is included with this Member Update.  Submissions must include the following:
1. Completed Application Entry Form
2. Narrative (2 Page Maximum)
3. Metrics & Measures/Timeline Supplement (2 Page Maximum)
4. Agency Profile Sheet
5. Additional Supporting Information Form

Applications should not exceed seven pages.  Additional materials will not be accepted for review by the Committee.

How Will Honorees Be Selected for Recognition?

Each Excellence in Management Program application will be reviewed by NACWA’s Awards Committee.  The Excellence in Management recognition program is non-competitive.  Each nomination is judged individually and all worthy nominations will receive recognition.

Get Recognized!

Excellence in Management honorees will be recognized during NACWA’s management-focused 2011 Summer Conference, July 19-22, 2011, at the Westin Chicago River North in Chicago, Illinois. 

Contact Kelly Brocato, Director of Membership Development at NACWA’s National Office, phone: 202/833-1449 or e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with any questions.

**This Member Update is provided to Affiliate Members for information only.**