The Eleanor Clark Award honors a public sector professional who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, meaningful engagement, and lasting impact within their organization or across the broader public sector. The award celebrates individuals who lead with integrity, elevate others, and strengthen public service through dedication and innovation.

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Nominations for the Eleanor Clark Award are open. Submit your nomination by Sunday, December 21, 11:59 p.m. ET.

About the Award

  • One crystal award is presented annually
  • Open to current or former employees of federal, state, local, or tribal governments and academia
  • Recognizes exceptional leadership and influence in public service
  • Nominees must have been employed in government service at the time the recognized work was performed
  • AGA membership is not required

About Eleanor Clark

Headshot of Eleanor "Ellie" Clark

Eleanor “Ellie” Clark was AGA’s first female National President (1981–1982) and a respected federal financial leader. As CFO of the Federal Housing Administration, she championed accountability and innovation. During her AGA presidency, she led a major overhaul of the association’s education program, introducing the Common Body of Knowledge (CBOK) and strengthening professional development. This award honors her trailblazing leadership and lifelong service to government financial management.

Nominees should exemplify:

  • Strong leadership that creates positive organizational or sector-wide impact
  • Commitment to engaging peers, teams, or communities in meaningful initiatives
  • A track record of professional integrity, credibility, and service
  • Notable contributions that enhance the effectiveness and reach of public service
  • A dedication to mentoring and supporting others in the profession

Latest Award Winner

Calandra Layne is recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to promoting and enabling staff excellence. Through her advocacy and mentorship, including raising funds for college campus food insecurity programs and championing first-generation college students, Calandra has made a lasting impact on both her community and professional networks. With an unwavering commitment to supporting and educating her team, Calandra has been a model of public servant leadership. Her efforts in mentoring young professionals and advancing opportunities within government financial management have contributed to measurable improvements in organizational satisfaction and student outreach initiatives.

Past Winners

2024
New York State Workers’ Compensation Board
2024
FDIC
2022
FDIC
2022
Motorola Solutions

Other Awards