The ALS TDI Leadership Awards are presented annually to people who have been nominated by our community in recognition of their exemplary leadership in the fight to end ALS. Nominations for the Leadership Awards open in late Summer and are presented at the ALS TDI Summit in October.
Nominations can be submitted here: https://www.als.net/summit/awards/nominate/
Leadership Award Descriptions:
Alexander Heywood Award
Named in honor of Stephen Heywood's son this award is presented to a young member of the ALS community who has taken the initiative to make a difference in the fight against ALS. Since losing his father to ALS at a young age, Alex has been involved in continuing his family's effort to support ALS research by hosting fundraisers, speaking at events, and sharing his father's story. In the same way, this award honors a young person who has made an impact by fundraising or raising awareness and inspiring those around them to get involved. Through their efforts, they have proven that regardless of age we can achieve amazing things when we donate our time and effort to support a cause we truly care about.
Fran Delaney Challenge & Respect Award
This award is presented to a member of the ALS community who has shown true leadership by engaging the community to advocate for and accelerate research. Through involvement in fundraising and awareness events, this person demonstrates a unique ability to organize and inspire others to help end ALS. They challenge those around them to join the fight against ALS and actively spread awareness of the ALS Therapy Development Institute’s work and mission.
Mary Lou Krauseneck Courage & Love Award
This award is presented to a member of the ALS community who demonstrates unwavering courage and optimism. The recipient of this award selflessly leads by example to uplift and inspire those around them. They believe in the power of positivity and remain committed to finding treatments for ALS. This individual consistently serves as a model of strength, courage, and love in the ALS community.
Stephen Milne Adventurous Spirit Award
This award is presented to a member of the ALS community who strives to find new and innovative ways to fundraise, advocate, and raise awareness for ALS research. The recipient of this award constantly explores bold new approaches to engage others in the fight to end ALS. They are driven by a commitment to excellence in ALS advocacy as they inspire their community to support the mission of the ALS Therapy Development Institute.
Augie Nieto Legacy Award
Named in honor of Augie Nieto, this award recognizes individuals and organizations who, like Augie, are committed to creating a lasting impact in the fight against ALS. A business pioneer and visionary, Augie dedicated the 18 years he lived with ALS to building a legacy that will one day bring an end to this disease. Through his leadership, he raised more than $200 million to advance the work at ALS TDI and ensured that future generations would face a world with effective treatments for ALS. This award is presented to those who follow in Augie’s footsteps, creating a long-lasting impact on the future of this disease—whether through fundraising, collaboration, awareness, or innovation.
Stephen Heywood Patients Today Award
This award is presented to a person with ALS who has been an exemplary community advocate for ALS research and awareness. They are knowledgeable of current research, willing to inform the community about research trends and advancements, and eager to serve as an educator for those unfamiliar with ALS. They challenge ALS researchers to remain firmly planted within the ALS community and focus on people with ALS today, in the hope of accelerating treatments and cures as quickly as possible. This person is a role model for people with ALS, encouraging them to find the strength and determination to fight this disease through research every day.
Attend the ALS TDI Summit to learn about the latest research at ALS TDI and see the Leadership Awards presentations. You can find this year’s dates and register to attend the Summit at www.als.net/alssummit