This year’s recipients are helping to improve the lives of thousands of Californians every day, whether it is by supporting returning war veterans or helping homeless families turn their lives around. They remind us that the ingenuity, resourcefulness and determination needed to solve difficult problems exist throughout our state.

"These leaders have successfully developed and implemented solutions to some of California’s most challenging problems, at a time when the state is hungry for proven solutions," said Jim Canales, president and CEO of the Irvine Foundation. “They deserve both our recognition and the support needed to expand and replicate their models.”

Please join us in honoring and celebrating their success, so that their proven solutions can inform state policymaking and better the lives of more Californians.

2012 Nominations

Nominations for the 2012 Leadership Awards are now closed. We would like to thank everyone who submitted a nomination. In late May, we will notify nominators whether their nominee has advanced to the second round of the process. For those who advance to the second round, nominators will be asked to provide additional information by June 29.

Read more about the Selection Process or consult our Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.

About the Awards

Now in its sixth year, the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards recognize and support individuals who are advancing innovative and effective solutions to significant state issues. Nominees may be working in any field — such as education, health, housing, economic development or the environment — in the public, private or nonprofit sector.

In the six years since the program was launched, we have recognized 34 recipients, including individuals and groups working as a team.

The Foundation provides each award recipient with $125,000 to support his or her work to benefit the people of California. At least $100,000 is designated for core support of the leader’s project or organization, and up to $25,000 may be used for the leader’s own professional development. The Foundation also assists recipients in sharing their promising approaches with policymakers and practitioners.