Good Leadership, in collaboration with presenting sponsor Gallagher and media partner Twin Cities Business, is proud to present the inaugural Minnesota HR THRIVE Awards. This movement is dedicated to elevating the human resource profession, championing innovation, and celebrating resilient leaders whose impact reaches far beyond policies and processes. By nominating these HR trailblazers, you’re not just recognizing excellence—you’re shaping the future of how HR leadership is celebrated and shared across industries.
CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA
Presenting awards to individuals in these four award categories. See below to read more about Eligibility Criteria, Submission & Program Overview, and other FAQs.
1. NextGen HR Leader Award
Honoring emerging HR leaders with 10 years of experience or less.
Criteria: Demonstrates exceptional leadership skills. Has made significant contributions to their organization. Exhibits potential for future growth and leadership.
2. Empower HR Award
Honoring those who champion other HR leaders by paving the way.
Criteria: Actively mentors and supports other HR professionals. Recognized by peers for their advocacy and support. Actively participates on committees and/or community boards.
3. HR Innovator Award
Showcase HR professionals who are advancing the organization with technology.
Criteria: Implements innovative HR technologies and solutions. Enhances HR processes through digital transformation. Demonstrates measurable improvements in efficiency and effectiveness.
4. Good Leadership Award
Award for significant impact on business strategy and organizational effectiveness.
Criteria: Develops and implements strategic HR initiatives that align with business goals. Drives organizational change and improvement. Demonstrates measurable impact on business performance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the eligibility criteria?
- Nominees must work in a human resources role or dedicate at least 50% of their time to HR-related responsibilities.
- Self-nominations are accepted, as well as nominations for colleagues or clients from your organization or others.
- You may submit a nominee in multiple categories.
- The Good Leadership entries celebrate lifetime achievements; all other categories focus on accomplishments within the past 12 months.
- Nominees and their companies must be located in Minnesota.
What is the program timeline and deadlines?
- Nominations are due by December 31, 2025. –> Deadline extended to January 12, 2026 to accommodate Holiday schedules.
- Finalists and nominators will be notified around March 1, 2026. Entrants will be notified by email ahead of the public announcement.
- Awards will be presented at an event on May 6, 2026.
- Honorees will be profiled in the June/July 2026 issue of Twin Cities Business magazine.
Why submit a nomination?
This program highlights the crucial role HR professionals play in shaping an organization’s success. Being recognized as one of Minnesota’s best in HR brings visibility to both the individual and their organization, highlighting the importance of the field. Honorees receive:
- An editorial profile in Twin Cities Business magazine.
- A physical award and certificate, as well as a digital badge for use on LinkedIn.
- National recognition across websites and social media.
What does the award celebrate?
This honor recognizes individuals who are leading transformative efforts in workplace culture, employee well-being, talent development, and more. It’s an opportunity to highlight leadership that is redefining the future of HR.
What makes a strong submission?
Successful entries clearly outline the nominee’s achievements and impact, including supporting materials—such as work samples, testimonials, or a LinkedIn profile.