Each year, the Afterschool Excellence Awards shine a light on the people and partners who strengthen out-of-school time across Michigan. These awards recognize leadership, creativity, advocacy, and community-building that help young people feel a sense of belonging and access meaningful opportunities beyond the school day.
As we look ahead to the 2026 MAC Annual Conference, we invite you to help us celebrate the individuals and organizations who are shaping a brighter future for Michigan youth. Nominations are now open for five award categories, each honoring a unique contribution to the OST field.
Mary Sutton Leadership Award
This award honors a leader who embodies the legacy of Mary Sutton through bold vision, strong relationship-building, and a deep commitment to equitable access to out-of-school time. Nominees demonstrate exceptional leadership that strengthens Michigan’s OST ecosystem, uplifts youth and caregivers, and moves the field forward with clarity, compassion, and courage.
Impact Award
The Impact Award recognizes an individual or organization whose work has created measurable, meaningful change for youth in their community. Nominees show how high-quality OST programming, intentional partnerships, and youth-driven practices can transform opportunities, expand access, and support young people in pursuing their goals.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award celebrates an emerging leader in the OST field who is already making a strong positive difference. Nominees bring creativity, dedication, and a learner’s mindset to their work. They demonstrate tremendous promise, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a passion for supporting youth voice and leadership.
Community Engagement Award
The Community Engagement Award recognizes someone who actively brings communities together to support youth. Nominees excel at building trust, fostering partnerships, and creating welcoming environments where youth, caregivers, educators, and community members feel valued and connected. Their work strengthens belonging and expands the reach and impact of OST programs.
OST Advocate of the Year Award
This award honors an individual who uses their voice, relationships, and influence to advance out-of-school time across Michigan. Nominees champion youth, mobilize partners, and strengthen public understanding and support for OST. Their advocacy helps ensure that every young person has access to safe, enriching opportunities beyond the school day.
Nominations are open now. We encourage educators, youth, caregivers, program leaders, policymakers, and community partners to lift up the leaders whose efforts deserve recognition. Award recipients will be celebrated at the 2026 MAC Annual Conference, held February 26–27 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.