Inside the Board: With Nicky Bleiel

Today we bring you another look “Inside the Board,” from members of the STC Board of Directors on various topics of interest. Today, Nicky Bleiel gives a recognition rundown of the individual and community awards in STC.

Recognition Rundown

Everyone likes to be recognized for their hard work, be it for volunteer or professional achievements. STC has a variety of programs to recognize its leaders, communities, and individuals at both levels. As the Board lead for Recognition, I wanted to give everyone a quick rundown of all of our programs.

First of all, I'd like to note that Members, Senior Members, Associate Fellows, and Fellows, can download the appropriate logo and use it to advertise their status in the Society. See https://www.stc.org/stcmembers/specialized-stc-logos.asp for details (login required).

Everyone, including members, community leaders, professors, or students, should check this list and learn about the variety of ways STC recognizes it brightest stars. To learn more about any of the programs, go to www.stc.org and click the Recognition button.

Individual Awards

Distinguished Chapter Service Award/Distinguished SIG Service Award/Distinguished Service Award for Students — This set of awards acknowledges the work of members who provide exemplary service to the Society through their dedication to their community.

Sigma Tau Chi/Alpha Sigma — STC sponsors two honorary societies for students. STX recognizes students in baccalaureate or graduate programs; AS recognizes those in two-year or certificate programs.

Frank R. Smith — This award recognizes the authors of exceptional articles in Technical Communication during a calendar year.

Jay R. Gould — The Jay R. Gould Award for excellence in teaching technical communication honors the distinguished teaching career of Professor Gould.

Ken Rainey — This award honors Dr. Ken Rainey by recognizing research that has made positive, significant contributions to technical communication practice and teaching.

Associate Fellow and Fellow — These honorary ranks are conferred upon those who have attained distinction in the Society and the field of technical communication. An honoree must first achieve the rank of Associate Fellow before being recognized as a Fellow.

Honorary Fellow —Honorary Fellow is conferred upon a person who is not a member of the Society but who has achieved eminence in the field of technical communication.

President's Award — This award is given by STC's President to an individual or organization that, in the opinion of the outgoing president, is deserving of recognition.

Community Awards

Community Achievement Award — The Community Achievement Award recognizes a SIG, professional or student chapter's outstanding accomplishments in achieving the Society's goals through their programs and activities. There are three levels: Merit, Excellence, and Distinction. (There are logos available for these awards also: https://www.stc.org/recog/awards01_comAchievement.asp)

Pacesetter Award — The Pacesetter Award acknowledges a SIG's or a professional or student chapter's contributions to the Society through innovative, effective programs, or activities.

I think that covers it! All of these awards will be presented at the Summit at various times (the Honors Banquet, opening Keynote, and Leadership Day). If you plan to attend the Summit this year, please consider registering for the Honors Banquet, it is a fun event where we award many of the above honors in a semi-formal (and by that I mean our wardrobe!) manner.  

And start thinking about nominating an outstanding individual or community for recognition in 2010-2011!