Awards

About The Award:

The Rising Star Award annually recognizes new assessment professionals who have at an early stage made a meaningful impact in their office, shown a commitment to professional development, and demonstrated leadership within their area of influence.

Eligibility:

Individuals who have been working in the assessment field for seven or fewer years. The nominee must hold a CIAO designation. Township assessors, CCAOs, and employees of any township or county assessment office, as well as relevant state agencies and boards of review offices are eligible.

Nominations:

Please observe the following rules for submitting nominations:

• Nominations must be submitted through the official form on the IPAI website.
• One nomination per nominee.
• No more than five letters of support.
• No more than five additional documents of support.

Criteria:

Nominees will be judged on the following factors:

Early Impact:

• This person has made a meaningful impact through improved processes, comprehension of core competencies, and execution of duties.

Professional Development:

• This person is committed to growing in their knowledge and has shown this through taking additional courses, attending State Conference and Legal Symposium, and/or taking webinars and other training opportunities

Leadership:

• This person has stepped up to lead in day-to-day office operations, special projects and initiatives, or by serving on a committee with the IPAI or other Illinois-based assessment organization.

Selection:

The nominations are reviewed by the IPAI Board of Directors and considered on the above criteria.

Nomination Form Questions:

1. How long has this individual been in the field and/or on staff with this office?

2. What difference have they already made in their jurisdiction that places them “head and shoulders” above others of similar experience and tenure?

3. How has this individual demonstrated a commitment to professional development?

4. How has this individual displayed leadership qualities that have positively impacted their work environment, or the office’s interactions with the public and/or other assessment-related offices and organizations?

5. Optional - Letters of support (maximum five letters allowed).
6. Optional - Additional supporting docs (maximum five docs allowed). Examples include news articles, resume or career timeline, resolutions of recognition, etc.

Submit Nomination

Download Sample Nomination

Previous RISING STAR Award Recipients:

2025 - Ivana Owona, Cunningham Township Assessor