The First Cohort established the IRE Visionary Leadership Award to recognize individuals who have demonstrated visionary leadership in urban governance and management. Michael Rogers, former COG Executive Director, was name the first IRE Visionary Leadership Award for his leadership in the region. He was also considered the "Father of IRE" for creating this program under his tenure. Since then, IRE celebrates the graduation day for each cohort along with the recognition of the IRE Visionary Leadership Award.

Nominees of the IRE Visionary Leadership Award includes persons who have served in an executive leadership capacity, and those who showed commitment to IRE through agency support for participation in the IRE Program and those who have demonstrated a commitment to the IRE program by providing information sessions on the benefits of participating in the program. Nominees are also expected to have demonstrated a commitment to developing relationships and networks that support cross jurisdictional learning, responsible decision making and creativity. It is also open to others in executive management and elected officials who have demonstrated strong support for the program along with the following achievements in the region:

• Conveyed and imparted a spirit of regionalism to our colleagues;
• Fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect for all jurisdictions in the region;
• Upheld the highest ideals of honor and integrity in public and private relationships;
• Respected and embraced diversity and celebrated an understanding and appreciation of all; and
• Accepted as a personal duty the responsibility to exercise leadership in the legacy of excellence in public service.
• Contributed and initiated successful programs that have positive impact in the region.
• Showed sincere efforts in advancing leadership development efforts for their staff and the region.
• Previous recipients of this award are not eligible to receive this award again. Selected recipient must be available to receive the award during the IRE Graduation.

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David Robertson

Barry Stanton

James Schwartz

James Hartmann

Jacqueline F. Brown

Grage Gerhart

Bruce Romer

Tony Griffin

Ron Carlee

Michael C. Rogers