Award Descriptions

ChangeMaker: Adult Volunteer of the Year
Recognizes an adult volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to service and has made a meaningful and measurable impact in the Memphis community through their time, leadership, and dedication.

ChangeMaker: Youth Volunteer of the Year
Recognizes a young leader who is actively engaged in service and is making a meaningful difference in their school, organization, or the broader Memphis community.

ChangeMaker: Business & Tech Leader of the Year
Honors a leader in business or technology who is driving innovation, economic growth, and community impact, while demonstrating a strong commitment to Memphis through leadership and engagement.

ChangeMaker: Non-Profit Leader of the Year
Recognizes a nonprofit leader who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, strengthened their organization’s impact, and contributed meaningfully to addressing community needs in Memphis.

ChangeMaker: Healthcare Leader of the Year
Honors a healthcare professional or leader who is improving health outcomes, advancing access to care, and making a significant impact on the well-being of individuals and families in Memphis.

ChangeMaker: Faith Leader of the Year
Recognizes a faith-based leader who is making a meaningful impact through service, spiritual leadership, and community engagement, contributing to the well-being and unity of Memphis.

ChangeMaker: Education Leader of the Year
Honors an educator or education leader who is creating meaningful change in student outcomes, educational systems, or learning environments across Memphis.

Non-Profit of the Year
Recognizes a nonprofit organization that has demonstrated exceptional impact, innovation, and effectiveness in serving the Memphis community and addressing critical needs.

Corporate Impact Award
Recognizes a corporation that has shown outstanding commitment to Memphis through volunteerism, community partnerships, and philanthropic giving, demonstrating meaningful and sustained community impact.

Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Honors a graduate of a Leadership Memphis program who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and ongoing commitment to strengthening Leadership Memphis and its impact in the community.

Kate Gooch ChangeMaker Leader of the Year
Recognizes an outstanding leader whose vision, leadership, and service reflect a deep and lasting commitment to Memphis. This award honors the legacy of Leadership Memphis’ founding Executive Director and celebrates individuals who exemplify leadership, action, and dedication to community impact.