Learn more: 2026 Annual Grants Training

NGMA Annual Awards

The annual NGMA Awards recognize three grants management professionals making positive contributions to the profession in three categories: Impact Award Public Sector, Impact Award Private Sector and Newton Award for Distinguished Service.

2026 Recipients

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

Mary Jean (MJ) White, CGMS
Impact Award, Private Sector

Andrea Grabow
Impact Award, Public Sector

Ken Dieffenbach
Newton Award for Distinguished Service

2026 Awards

Thank you to those who submitted nominees for the 2026 NGMA Awards. Winners were announced at the 2026 Annual Grants Training (March 22-25 | Washington, D.C.). The 2027 Award nomination period opens Fall 2026.

AWard Categories

Awards are presented at NGMA’s Annual Grants Training (AGT) in Washington, D.C.

Impact Award, Public Sector

Recognizes exceptional contribution in advancing the field of grants management by a public official at the federal, state, or local level, or by a Congressional representative. Contributions may include a general or specific positive impact on professional grants management practice, methodology, advocacy, partnership, or volunteerism.

Impact Award, Private Sector

Recognizes exceptional contribution in advancing the field of grants management by an individual from the private sector, including but not limited to: business and industry, nonprofit organizations, professional associations, and national publications. Contributions may include a general or specific positive impact on professional grants management practice, methodology, advocacy, partnership, or volunteerism.

Newton Award for Distinguished Service

Recognizes outstanding service and leadership in the grants management field by an NGMA volunteer or partner. Individuals who receive this award show a commitment to the NGMA mission and contribute to the success of the Association’s programs.
This award is nominated by and voted on by the NGMA Board of Directors.