The Maryellen P. Harper Outstanding Volunteer Service (MPHOVS) Award recognizes those members of ASSP who perform substantial volunteer service to the local or regional EHS community above and beyond the duties required as a member of the ASSP. Such volunteer service must be made in a sustained and direct nature towards the profession, must be significant in nature to produce tangible results, and must reflect favorably on the region and the ASSP. The MPHOVS is intended to recognize exceptional community support over time and not a single act or achievement. Further, it is intended to honor direct support of local and regional member and community activities.
Eligibility
Member of ASSP for a minimum of 10 years (open to any membership category), with a minimum of 7 years of volunteer service within ASSP. This can be within a chapter(s) or at the Region level and is intended to recognize the “unsung hero” who works behind the scenes. There is no specific time period to qualify for the MPHOVS (for example 500 hours of service within 24 calendar months), approval authorities will ensure the service to be honored merits the special recognition afforded by this medal. The candidate does not have to hold or have held a formal office, but rather should demonstrate consistency in volunteering for the profession overall. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a long
history of adding value to the members of Region VI through their volunteerism. The candidate will be seen in their peer group as a resource and mentor.
Award criteria
Candidates are evaluated on the following criteria:
- Demonstrated Commitment to ASSP Volunteer Service
Consistent and impactful volunteer involvement within the Region or local Chapter. This may include committee participation, project leadership, mentoring, event support, long-term operational service, or other essential roles that strengthen Chapter or Region operations and advance ASSP’s mission locally. Individuals whose sustained, behind-the-scenes contributions provide dependable support year after year, including those who quietly take on critical responsibilities that keep a Chapter or Region functioning effectively. - Contributions to Member Engagement and Community Building
Active efforts to enhance the member experience, such as organizing programs, supporting student outreach, fostering inclusion, strengthening chapter operations, or creating opportunities for professional connection and growth. Contributions may also include the dependable work done behind the scenes to support continuity, stability, and a strong sense of community, even when that service is not highly visible. - Advancement of ASSP Programs and Strategic Initiatives
Meaningful contributions that support Chapter and Region priorities, including member development, professional education, community outreach, and local engagement. This may include developing resources, supporting programs, or implementing initiatives that strengthen the Chapter or Region and elevate the profession within the local community. - Leadership and Influence in Volunteer Roles
Demonstrated leadership or influence that strengthens volunteer teams and contributes to the success of Chapter or Region programs. This may include chairing committees, leading projects, mentoring new volunteers, modeling professionalism and collaboration, or serving as a trusted and consistent backbone of Chapter or Region operations. Recognition should also reflect those who take on important responsibilities that others may overlook or avoid, including long-serving contributors whose quiet dedication has an outsized impact. - Recognition and Endorsements
Letters of support from peers, Chapter or Region leaders, or collaborators that verify the nominee’s contributions, character, and impact. Endorsements should reflect the nominee’s dedication, professionalism, and influence as a volunteer within the Chapter or Region.
Nomination Packet Submission
The nomination packet must include the following:
- Two letters of recommendation from ASSP members describing the candidate’s volunteer service and highlighting the impact they have made on the safety profession.
- Supporting documentation that demonstrates how the candidate meets the award criteria (e.g., newsletter articles, social media posts, project summaries).
- Resume, if available.
Deadline: Nomination packets must be submitted by February 1 each year.
If you know someone who embodies the spirit of volunteerism and has made a significant impact through their service, we invite you to nominate them today. Please email your completed packet to arvp-member@region6.assp.org.