Thought Leader Award
ATD Award Programs
Award Criteria and Eligibility
Eligibility: Candidates should be individuals from within talent development or a related field. Elected officials are not eligible.
Criteria: Candidates will be evaluated on the scope and depth of documented contributions to advancing the development of talent in support of individual and organizational success.
Evidence of their work within the talent development field.
Evidence their work has had a sustained impact (10+ years) on the talent development profession and the individuals working in the field.
Evidence the candidate is a thought leader who has made and continues to make significant contributions to advancing the development of talent in support of individual and organizational success.
Evidence their work and synthesis of ideas has global application.
Evidence their actions, ideas, methods, concepts, or approaches influence audiences, organizations, and the talent development industry.
Evidence their work, ideas, and concepts have helped talent development practitioners—and the organizations for which they work—achieve business results.
Evidence the candidate's thought leadership and influence are significant in the field.
(This award was previously known as the Distinguished Contribution Award.)