How to Write a Compelling Award Nomination

Thank you for taking the time to recognize outstanding individuals and agencies through the EMSAC Awards Program. Whether you are an EMS provider, supervisor, administrator, community member or partner agency, your nomination helps highlight the exceptional service and dedication within Colorado’s EMS system. These tips will help you craft a strong and compelling submission.

Start Early!

High‑quality nominations take time to prepare. Begin early so you can develop a thoughtful narrative, gather supporting documents and—if applicable—coordinate with local or regional award programs. Early preparation allows room for refinement and ensures your final submission is polished and complete.

Select the Appropriate Award Category

Some nominees clearly match a specific category, while others may fit several. Review the award criteria carefully to determine the best placement. If you’re uncertain, EMSAC can provide clarify or make suggestions for you. Choosing the correct category strengthens your nominee’s likelihood of being evaluated accurately and fairly.

Gather Meaningful Letters of Support

Letters of support help paint a full picture of the nominee’s impact. Consider requesting letters from:

  • Community members
  • Patients or families
  • Mutual-aid partners
  • Clinical team members
  • Agency leadership
  • Colleagues or peers

Request letters early—many people intend to help but may need reminders. Aim for two to three strong letters that add depth, unique stories, or additional context beyond your primary narrative.

Include Background and Context

Help reviewers understand the nominee’s path and commitment. Include:

  • A general history of the individual or agency
  • Years of service or involvement in EMS
  • Progression through roles, certifications, or leadership positions
  • Notable contributions to the profession or community

This background helps place their accomplishments within a broader career or organizational history.

Highlight Specific Accomplishments

Concrete examples bring the narrative to life. Consider including:

  • Significant incidents, calls, or responses
  • Leadership moments or mentorship impact
  • Program development or quality-improvement efforts
  • Innovation in clinical care or operations
  • Outreach, training, or community engagement initiatives

Specific evidence of excellence strengthens your case and demonstrates why the nominee stands out among their peers.

Review and Refine the Nomination

Before submission, have someone else read your nomination package. A fresh perspective can help ensure:

  • The narrative is clear and complete
  • The award category is appropriate
  • Grammar and spelling are correct
  • The overall message is compelling and professional

Even seasoned writers benefit from another set of eyes—reviewing your own work often means reading what you intended to say rather than what is actually written.

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