Association Forum Announces 2026 Honors Award Recipients

CHICAGO (March 19, 2026) — Association Forum is proud to announce the 2026 Honors Award recipients, recognizing outstanding contributions and leadership within the association community. These distinguished individuals and organizations will be celebrated at Association Forum’s annual Honors Gala on June 25, 2026, at The Old Post Office in Chicago.

“Association Forum Honors Awards program celebrates the people who push our profession forward every day,” said Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President and CEO of Association Forum. “Our honorees are leaders who challenge the status quo, uplift their communities, and demonstrate the power of associations to create real impact. It is truly inspiring to recognize individuals and organizations who are shaping what the future of our profession looks like.”

“Each of these honorees truly represents the very best of our community—leaders who show up, give generously of their time, talent, and expertise, and make a real impact,” said Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE, Association Forum Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®. “Their dedication strengthens our profession and is a powerful reminder of the role associations play in supporting industries, advancing knowledge, and bringing people together.”

2026 Honors Award Recipients

Samuel B. Shapiro Award for Chief Staff Executive Achievement – powered by Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau
Association Forum’s highest honor is awarded to Gregory Heidrich, MA, NACD-DC, CEO of the Society of Actuaries. Heidrich is recognized for his exceptional leadership, significant contributions to the association profession, and commitment to advancing innovation and professional development.

John C. Thiel Distinguished Service Award
This award honors outstanding volunteer service to Association Forum. The 2026 recipient, Nikki Palluzzi, CAE, Senior Director of Membership at the Illinois CPA Society, is recognized for her unwavering dedication, mentorship, and long-standing contributions to the association community.

Association Professional Achievement Award – Powered by Choose Chicago
Presented to an association professional member for exemplary service and achievement, this year’s recipient is JoAnna Leon, Director of Membership & Chapters at MHI and Managing Director of MHI-CICMHE. Leon is celebrated for her leadership, commitment to growth, and impactful contributions to her organization and the broader profession.

Chris Mahaffey Inspiring Leader Award – Powered by Visit Anchorage, Alaska
This award recognizes an individual who fosters a culture of engagement, motivation, and achievement. The 2026 recipient, Tammy Kwiatkoski, MBA, CAE, FHIMSS, Senior Director of Global Community Operations at Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), is honored for her inspiring leadership, dedication to team development, and commitment to excellence.

Welcoming Environment® Organizational Award – Powered by Visit KC
Presented to an association that demonstrates excellence in fostering an inclusive and welcoming culture, this year’s recipient is the Association of African American Financial Advisors. Under the leadership of CEO Sheena Gray, the organization has implemented impactful initiatives that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and psychological safety for staff and members.

About the Awards

Association Forum’s Honors Awards recognize individuals and organizations who demonstrate excellence in leadership, service, and innovation across the association community. Recipients are selected based on their measurable impact, commitment to advancing the profession, and dedication to fostering inclusive and high-performing organizations.

Join Us to Celebrate Excellence

Join us on June 25, 2026, at The Old Post Office in Chicago for the Honors Gala—an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements of these outstanding leaders and supporting the Association Forum Foundation. You can purchase tables and tickets here.

Visit www.associationforum.org for more details.

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About Association Forum

Founded in 1916, Association Forum serves nearly 3,000 association professionals who represent over 37 million members and generate $22 billion in global annual expenditures. The mission of Association Forum is to advance the professional practice of association management.