Recipients of the award are celebrated for their exemplary leadership and the crucial role they play in shaping the Main Street Movement. Introduced in 2019 and announced annually at the Main Street Now Conference, the Mary Means Leadership Award also recognizes the outstanding and steadfast leadership of Main Street America’s founder, Mary Means.

Eligibility: Current employees or volunteers of a Coordinating Partner or Local Program that has an active membership are eligible to be considered for the Mary Means Leadership Award.

Nominations: The Mary Means Leadership Award nomination period typically takes place during the late fall/​early winter months. Individuals may nominate themselves or others for the award. Eligible communities were invited to submit nominations for 2024 Mary Means Leadership Award recipients from November 27, 2023-March 1, 2024.

Selection Process: Winners are selected from a nationwide pool of nominations by a jury of past recipients, Main Street America staff, external partners. Evaluation criteria include a nominee’s track record in: building local capacity, leading through strategy, centering equity in their work, convening diverse stakeholders through shared vision, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning, advancing a preservation ethic, and exhibiting innovation and integrity.

Accolades & Ceremony: The 2024 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient will receive a $1,000 professional development stipend for the Main Street America Institute, a $500 professional development travel stipend, media relations support, and a special feature on the Main Street America website. We look forward to celebrating them at the 2024 Main Street Now Conference in Birmingham, Alabama! 

Questions: Email samraen@​mainstreet.​org.