Throughout urban history, there have been individuals who advocate for under-represented and less-advantaged residents. These advocates fight against social, economic and political barriers to both protect urban communities, and open access to opportunities and resources for their residents. Often serving in voluntary roles, and/or elected positions, such activists face considerable obstacles and pressure from resistant forces and institutions. They are sometimes unrecognized in any public manner. Within their communities they are both role models and service leaders. Urban activists play instrumental roles in organizing and elevating community interests and advancing social justice. Their work reflects the same values held by the Urban Affairs Association. This award recognizes their current and/or past efforts in promoting the rights and well-being of urban communities and seeks to give public and national recognition to their contributions.
DEADLINE: October 17, 2025 (11:59pm CDT) – Last day to submit an application
Applicants should be individuals who live in the Chicago Metropolitan Area and work on behalf of and in partnership with urban communities within the state, particularly around issues of social, political, environmental and economic equity. Applicants do not need to be members of UAA.
Applicants should submit the following to help the committee make its selection:
The recipient(s) of the award receive:
The nominations will be reviewed by a committee appointed by the Chairperson of the Governing Board.
The award committee will solicit nominations from UAA members in the metropolitan area of the conference site, as well as from members of the Local Host Committee.
The awards committee will report its decision to the UAA Executive Director, who will inform all nominees and nominators of the committee’s decision prior to the spring UAA conference.
2025 – Vancouver Conference
2024 – New York Conference
2023 – Nashville Conference