Excellence in Advocacy Awards Frequently Asked Questions

 

We are a public affairs firm and we do not lobby. What do you consider to be the definition of 'ADVOCATE?'

WGR defines advocacy very broadly as anyone who represents an issue, cause, organization or constituency in the public policy arena. This includes women working in government relations, public affairs, law, activism, campaigns, communications and the law.

 

Is there a cost to nominate someone?

There is no cost to submit a nomination. There is a small fee to attend the awards reception for people other than finalists and awardees who may attend for free.

 

Can I nominate Myself?

Yes, self-nominations are permitted. A recommendation must be included.

 

Are there age requirements or restrictions for nominees?

No, there is no minimum or maximum age if the nominee meets the criteria set forth in the category requirements.

 

Can Men be Nominated?

The spirit of the EIA Awards is to recognize women in our field. However, certain scenarios may qualify such as a team effort where a man is working with women to achieve the goal. Organizers will assess on a case-by-case basis.

 

During What PerIOd Do the Campaigns have to have OccuRred to be Nominated?

The awards are intended to recognize recent campaigns from 2023 to present.

 

How public is the nomination process?

The goal of the EIA Awards is to raise the visibility of the advocate and her cause so this is a very public process. Nominee’s names will be announced publicly via email and social media. Finalists and awardees may also be listed in print and digital media. Some advocates wish to remain under the radar, so we strongly recommend having a conversation with the person you wish to nominate before you nominate them.  

The judging process itself is confidential. The only people reviewing the nomination forms and supporting documentation are the judges and staff. If there is sensitive information contained in the supporting documents, please notify staff.

 

Will the person I am nominating know they have been nominated?

Once submitted, the nominee will receive a copy of the nomination you submitted on her behalf. The information contained in the form will then be published on our website, in press releases and in email communications about the awards. The most successful nominations are the ones done in collaboration with the nominee so that the best and most accurate information can be presented.

 

Are there extentions on the deadline in extenuating circumstances?

No, the deadline is firm and will not be extended for individual or group nominations. Staff may extend the deadline for all nominations if the need arises.

 

Is there a specific format for uploading my supporting materials?

Files should be named: “Nominee Name_Name of Document.” Attachments must be PDFs. Do not include links to websites or documents, you must upload a screenshot of the website or include a PDF of the document. Links will not be used in the selection process.

 

I tried to submit a nomination form on the last day of the nomination and had technical problems with the website. Will you accept the nomination by email?

No, we will not accept nominations via email. The best way to ensure your nomination is entered on time and in its entirety is to submit it before the last-minute crush of the deadline.

 

Will I receive a confirmation for my nomination when I submit?

Yes, you should receive an auto-generated confirmation email which you should keep as proof of your submission. If you do not receive an email, it means your nomination may not have gone through. Contact the staff immediately.

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Each year, in conjunction with the  Leadership and Advocacy Conference, Women in Government Relations (WGR) presents the Excellence in Advocacy (EIA) Awards spotlighting everyday advocates who dedicate themselves to representing their issue, cause or organization in the public policy arena. Be prepared to be influenced and inspired!