An inside look at the Toastmasters District 42 “Of the Year” Awards

Toastmasters in District 42 recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals, clubs, areas and divisions annually. The Of the Year (OTY) Awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who make a difference in their Toastmasters community. This article offers a detailed overview of the awards, including their purpose, key players, selection process, and important deadlines.

Why Recognizing Excellence?

The District 42 Of the Year Awards recognize and celebrate Toastmasters who have exhibited exceptional dedication, commitment, enthusiasm, and service from July 1st to June 30th each year. These awards honor those who have gone above and beyond in contributing to the growth and success of their clubs, areas, and divisions

Who is Involved?

Past Presidents and a nomination committee lead the nomination process for the Of the Year Awards. Together, they work to recognize individuals who exhibit outstanding leadership and contribute greatly to the organization. For more information on OTY awards, including eligibility and deadlines, visit the Of the Year Awards Page on the D42 Website or consult the District 42 Procedures. 

How to nominate?

The nomination committee accepts personal testimonials from fellow club members to assess the nominee’s contributions. Worksheet forms available in the FAQ section, offer guidance on the nomination process.

Awards are given in three categories:

• Rookie of the Year,
• Toastmaster of the Year, and
• PR Program of the Year.

Streamline the nomination process with the online nomination form, found at the bottom of the D42 Of the Year Awards page. Nominee and appointed Area Director receive confirmation once submitted. If you have not been receiving/redirected emails from the AD or DD email, contact the administration. 

Who to nominate:

• Rookie of the Year: For members with under 18 months of membership who go above and beyond for the club and are involved with the district.
• Toastmaster of the Year: Honoring individuals who make an impact beyond the club by contributing to the district without holding a major leadership role.
• PR Program of the Year:  Recognizing the efforts of the club’s VP PR or the team promoting the club.
• President OTY is a district-nominated category with specific requirements outlined in the FAQ section.
• Area Director of the Year nominations are encouraged by Division Directors.
• Division Directors can start filling in their nomination forms.

When is the Deadline?

For detailed information on submission deadlines, responsible parties for form completion, and award presentation details, nomination committees at each level can refer to the provided timeline and process guidelines. These can be found on the D42 Of the Year Awards page.

When are the District Winners announced?

The district leaders will hold a special event to announce the District OTY awards. Check out the event calendar on the D42 Website for the dates. 

Join the celebration of excellence.

The District 42 Of the Year Awards recognize Toastmasters who elevate the learning environment and contribute to club and district success. Get involved with the submission window and participate in this annual event. Find guidance and resources on the official D42 Of the Year Awards page.

If you have any questions follow up with me.

Vesna Ivkovic
D42 Webmaster / Dispatch Designer