John Bry
John Bry was recognized for his ability to develop innovative ideas, build organizational capacity of local programs and leaders, and lead through understanding as program coordinator.
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The Mary Means Leadership Award recognizes exceptional local leaders for their extraordinary vision, determination, and commitment to community-led transformation.
Wytheville, Virginia © Downtown Wytheville Inc.
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.
The 2024 Mary Means Leadership Award is generously sponsored by Regions Bank.
Main Street America is proud to recognize John Bry, Program Coordinator at Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) in Michigan, as the 2023 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient.
John Bry with Mary Means. © mark manne photography/Main Street America
John Bry was recognized for his ability to develop innovative ideas, build organizational capacity of local programs and leaders, and lead through understanding as program coordinator.
Patrice was recognized for her dedicated service to the Main Street Movement, exemplary collaborative leadership, and entrepreneurial mindset.
Todd was recognized for his creative energy, strategic mindset, and coalition-building approach as a Main Street director.
Breanne was recognized for her collaborative and visionary approach, which empowers Washington State Main Street leaders to strengthen local economies, preserve historic assets, and work together to revitalize their communities.
Sharon was recognized for her innovative approach to downtown revitalization, which transformed Morganton into a thriving entertainment district, with a lively arts scene and strong local economy.