Nominees are evaluated on the following criteria:

Emerging Professional (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee must illustrate that she is making significant progress toward personal and professional growth, has continually accepted increased responsibilities, and has made significant contributions to her work environment. Criteria to be evaluated includes career progression, leadership skills, results and a promising future.

Excellence in Business (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee, who owns at least 50 percent of a business that has been established for at least five years, will be evaluated on organizational culture, proven record on solving problems, growing and managing resources, and delivering results. She constantly strives to provide value and create a better experience for employees and customers. Solid business practices,   profitability, and the use of human and financial resources will be evaluated in relation to the overall success of her business.

Excellence in Business Innovation (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee utilized innovation to develop a new market, product or service, or to solve a significant challenge, develop new business model/operational strategy. Innovation does not have to be something that’s considered a breakthrough, but it could be applying new processes, new techniques to the existing business.

Excellence in Management (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee demonstrates steady growth and continued development of management and leadership skills. She maximizes organizational effectiveness and sustainability through decisive action, empowerment of her team, and strong financial management. She ensures that people have the support and tools they need, and that the workforce has the capacity to meet organizational objectives. Criteria to be evaluated include the nominee’s initiative, willingness to take risks, her ability to implement creative solutions to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

Excellence in the Professions (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee may be an employee of an existing for-profit or non-profit organization or company or a self-employed professional. She demonstrates leadership and a willingness to teach and mentor others in her profession and consistently upholds the standards and ethics that govern her field. A professional license is not required for this category.

Distinguished Career (For-Profit or Nonprofit Sector) – The nominee must have at least 25 years of experience and demonstrate a lifetime of exemplary contribution to her field and the community. Willingness to teach and mentor others in her profession and consistently uphold the standards and ethics that govern her field.