Skip to content

International Association of Emergency Managers Establishes Prestigious New Honor Recognizing Exceptional Service to the Association

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) is proud to announce the establishment of the Elizabeth B. Armstrong Award for Outstanding Contributions to IAEM, one of the organization’s most prestigious honors. Named after IAEM’s long-serving executive director, this award recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the goals and work of IAEM as an association.

“The Elizabeth B. Armstrong Award represents the highest recognition for those who have dedicated themselves to strengthening IAEM and advancing our mission,” said IAEM-USA President Josh Morton, MPA, CEM. “This award honors individuals whose leadership, commitment, and innovation have made a lasting impact on our organization and the members we serve.”

The new award was announced at IAEM’s recent annual conference. Upon hearing of the IAEM Board of Directors had created the award, Ms. Armstrong said, “There is no greater professional tribute than to have one’s name attached to excellence, and I am profoundly humbled to have this award serve as a lasting bridge between my own journey and the achievements of those it will honor in the years to come.”

Award Purpose and Eligibility

The Elizabeth B. Armstrong Award recognizes individuals whose efforts, commitment, and leadership have significantly strengthened and advanced the IAEM organization itself. Unlike awards recognizing general excellence in emergency management, this honor specifically celebrates contributions to IAEM’s strength, success, and sustainability as an association.

Nominees will demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:

  • Advancing IAEM’s Mission – Supporting organizational growth and visibility through outreach, leadership, or program development, and contributing to the profession through IAEM-led initiatives, task forces, or committees.
  • Leadership Within IAEM – Serving in elected or appointed leadership roles and creating or enhancing programs, policies, or procedures that improve IAEM operations or member services.
  • Professional Development & Mentoring – Supporting certification programs such as AEM®/CEM® and mentoring others in the profession through IAEM channels.
  • Volunteerism and Service – Providing sustained volunteer service to the association and organizing conferences, training, or strategic initiatives.
  • Innovation and Strategic Vision – Leading new efforts that result in tangible benefits to IAEM members or raise the organization’s profile nationally and internationally.

For an official copy of this press release, please contact Dawn Shiley, CAE.

Scroll To Top