Awards of Excellence
The Running USA Awards of Excellence recognize outstanding contributions, initiative,
leadership or innovation in the running industry. Honorees can be individuals or a group, program or organization and should be demonstrably driving positive change in the industry.
2025: Erica Edwards O’Neal, Senior Vice President for Culture, Diversity, Equity & Social Responsibility, New York Road Runners
2024: Vanessa Peralta-Mitchell, President, VCPM Inc. and founder of the Game Changers program
2023: Michael Nishi, COO, Chicago Event Management; founder, Race Management Program
2022: Alison Mariella Desir, co-founder, Running Industry Diversity Coalition
Criteria for Selection
Nominees can be individuals or a group, program or organization. Nominators will be asked to describe their outstanding contributions, initiative, leadership or unique innovation that has positively influenced the running industry. Two honorees will be selected, so multiple nominations are welcome.
2025 nominations are now closed