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Good Leadership and Gallagher, with media partner Twin Cities Business, are proud to present the second annual 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 professionals with less than 10 years of human resources experience
Criteria: Demonstrates strong ownership and accountability of their work. Makes significant contributions to their organization. Exhibits potential for future growth and leadership.

2. Empower HR Award
Honoring HR leaders who create positive momentum by supporting the next generation of leaders.
Criteria: Actively mentors and supports other young professionals. Is recognized by peers for their advocacy and support. Participates on committees and/or community boards.

3. HR Innovator Award
Honoring HR leaders 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
Honoring HR executives (i.e., SVP, CHRO, CPO) who have had a significant impact across the organization and business strategy.
Criteria: Develops and implements strategic HR initiatives that align with and enable the achievement of business goals. Drives organizational change and improvement. Seen as a thought leader in the HR community.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the eligibility criteria?

  • Nominees must work in a human resources role.
  • Nominations must be made by peers, colleagues, or individuals within the professional community. Self-nominations are not accepted.
  • 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 1, 2026.
  • Finalists and nominators will be notified around March 1, 2027. Entrants will be notified by email ahead of the public announcement.
  • Awards will be presented at an event on May 5, 2027.
  • 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. Finalists and honorees receive:

  • An editorial profile in Twin Cities Business magazine.
  • A physical award and/or certificate to display in their office.
  • National recognition across websites and social media.

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.