The Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) is accepting nominations for the prestigious Michael Graznak and H.E. Klinefelter Awards. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to cooperative communications, honoring both emerging and seasoned professionals in the field.

In addition, CCA is accepting nominations for the CEO Communicator Award, which recognizes the commitment of a cooperative chief executive officer to open communication as an integral part of an effective management style. The deadline for award nominations is Friday, April 11, 2025. Information and applications can be found at www.communicators.coop.

“Recognizing excellence in cooperative communications is a cornerstone of CCA’s mission,” said Mallory Shoemaker, CCA board member and award chairperson. “These awards highlight the dedication and innovation of professionals who work tirelessly to tell the cooperative story. We encourage all members to nominate those who exemplify leadership and commitment to our industry.”

The Michael Graznak Award celebrates CCA members aged 35 or younger who have demonstrated excellence in cooperative communications through their professional work and active involvement in CCA. Recipients of this award show exceptional promise for continued success in the industry.

The H.E. Klinefelter Award is presented to CCA members who’ve made significant, long-term contributions to cooperative communications. This award honors individuals whose work is recognized by their peers as outstanding and who have dedicated extensive time and expertise to advance both cooperative communication and the CCA organization.

Award winners, including the recipient of the CEO Communicator Award, will be announced at the annual CCA institute, taking place June 1-3, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colo. This event brings together cooperative-communicator professionals from across the country to share knowledge, network, and celebrate excellence in the field.

CCA exists to improve the effectiveness of all cooperative communicators; advance professional standards; and exchange facts, research, techniques, and opinions among cooperative communicators. Board members for the 2024-2025 business year, and their home cooperatives: Cliff Dolbeare, president, GROWMARK, Inc., Bloomington, Ill.; Dori Lichty, vice president, CentralStar Cooperative, Waupun, Wis.; Kelly Jimenez, secretary-treasurer, Carroll EMC, Carrollton, Ga.; Adam Buckallew, MFA Oil Company, Columbia, Mo.; Jennie Lacey, Roberta, Ga.; Anne Baehnman, URUS Group LP, Madison, Wis.; Brianna Wall, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, Norman, Okla.; Hayley Leatherwood, Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives, Oklahoma City, Okla.; and Mallory Shoemaker, Central Valley Ag Cooperative, Beloit, Kan. Visit www.communicators.coop for  more information.