2026 Ohio Problem Gambling Conference

Award Nominations

Problem Gambling Network of Ohio  is now accepting nominations for both the Award of Excellence and the Impact Award.

Award of Excellence

The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio Award of Excellence honors individuals whose lifelong dedication, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the field of problem gambling prevention, treatment, recovery, or responsible gambling in Ohio. This lifetime achievement award recognizes those who have consistently demonstrated innovation, advocacy, mentorship, and an enduring commitment to strengthening Ohio’s problem gambling service system over the course of their career.

Impact Award

The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio Impact Award recognizes individuals that have made a significant and measurable contribution to advancing problem gambling prevention, treatment, recovery, or responsible gambling efforts within the past 12 months. This award celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, collaboration, and innovation in their work, resulting in meaningful progress for the field and the communities they serve.

Important Details


  • Any individual may submit a nomination, including a self-nomination.
  • Award recipients will be selected based on the merits of the submitted nomination materials. This information should include specific examples, letter(s) of recommendation, and any other items necessary to make your case.
  • Nominations that are incomplete or are received after the due date will not be considered.
  • The Awards Committee reserves the right to solicit additional information regarding nominees at any time.
  • Ohio for Responsible Gambling representatives and Problem Gambling Network of Ohio staff and board members are ineligible to be nominated for either award.

Nomination Criteria


  • The nominee must have demonstrated a long-term and meaningful impact on the development, advancement, and sustainability of problem gambling or responsible gambling services in Ohio.
  • The nominee’s career should reflect a legacy of leadership, collaboration, and dedication to improving the lives of those affected by gambling-related harm.
  • The nominee’s work must be verified by at least one letter of recommendation that details their professional accomplishments and contributions at the local, regional, or statewide level.

  • The nominee must have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, or achievement related to problem gambling or responsible gambling efforts in Ohio within the previous 12 months.
  • The nominee’s contribution should show a clear and measurable impact on local, regional, or statewide outcomes (e.g., expanded services, improved collaboration, increased awareness, innovative programming).
  • A minimum of one letter of recommendation is required, verifying the nominee’s work and highlighting their impact, professionalism, and dedication.


Awards will be presented during the 2026 Ohio Problem Gambling Conference taking place on

Wednesday, February 11, 2026 and Thursday, February 12, 2026.


To celebrate this accomplishment, award recipients will also receive a commemorative plaque to honor their efforts.

The nomination deadline is December 12, 2025.


Selected candidates and their nominator will be contacted no later than January 9, 2026.