Spiritus Award

Spiritus  is a Latin term meaning inspiration. Spirit-filled leaders throughout the Bible and Christian tradition are remembered by how they have inspired others and us.
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The Spiritus Award is presented by PAHSA to recognize a leader at any level who is serving among PAHSA’s members and whose values align with their actions, inspiring others to lift up the well being of all who live and work in their organization.

Sponsored by:

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“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
                                        ~ Hebrews 10: 24​

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The Spiritus Award includes:

• A personalized recognition trophy given to and individual recipient or a group
• A substantial donation to the member organization’s philanthropy in honor of the recipient.
• Recognition at the Annual Fall Gathering and on PAHSA.ORG 

Eligibility

• Individual whose organization is an active PAHSA member
• Nominee is a current employees, volunteer and/or resident and remains so at the time the award is presented
• Nominee demonstrates leadership that is visionary, authentic, passionate, empathetic and  collaborative. Their values align with their action. They motivate and influence others towards a shared vision or goal that advances their organization's mission. 
• Nominee fosters a positive and enthusiastic environment where employees, volunteers and residents  feel inspired and empowered to contribute their best towards the wellbeing of the community,
• Nominee has given permission to be nominated and agree to cooperate with verification requests
• Nomination is endorsed by organization’s leadership​

​Nominations ​for the Spiritus Award will open in Summer 2025.​
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Award will be presented in November 2025 at the Fall Gathering in Boston, Massachusettes.

Selection Criteria
After nominations close, The Education Committee of PAHSA will review all nominees based on the following criteria:

• Nominee’s leadership style, focus and practices align with the mission of the nominee’s organization and PAHSA’s faith-based values
• Nominee leads with vision, integrity, passion, empathy and collaboration.
• Nominee’s leadership inspires others within the organization to be motivated. engaged and committed to the mission of the organization. 

The member organization of the finalist will be notified regarding continued eligibility of recipient and acceptance. If the way be clear, the Education Committee will recommend finalist to Board of Directors for approval. 
 
Notification to recipient/group and member organization
Upon final board approval, the member organization and recipient will be notified and acceptance confirmed.
 
Announcement and presentation
The award is presented at the Fall Gathering at LeadingAge.
The recipient will be invited to be present if feasible. If not, a representative of the member organization may accept on behalf of the recipient.
Award recipient will be announced/introduced on PAHSA’s website and through communications with PAHSA membership.