The Recognition Champion Award was established in 2000 to honour Pamela Sabin, a founding member of RPI and a dedicated advocate for employee recognition. This award recognises individuals who embody the qualities of a recognition champion by:
- Demonstrating leadership in spreading the message of recognition within their organisation.
- Exhibiting passion and overcoming obstacles to promote recognition principles.
- Creating ongoing recognition programs that emphasise measurement and commitment.
- Serving as role models for recognition practices through their words and actions.
In her work as Senior Employee Experience Specialist at Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Ava focuses on employee experience, engagement, recognition, and communications. An advocate for recognition to be woven into the everyday culture of an organisation, Ava aims to make programs feel meaningful, intentional, and connected to the people they serve.
Upon receiving news of the award, Ava says, “I am truly honoured to receive this award. Personally, it gives me a meaningful moment to pause and reflect on the heart behind this work. Recognition has always been more than a program or a process to me — it is about seeing people fully, acknowledging their effort, and reminding them that who they are and what they contribute truly matters.”
Known for partnering across teams to create experiences that celebrate employees and strengthen belonging, her work exemplifies the belief that people do their best work when they know their contributions matter. Her nominator cited, “Ava’s leadership goes beyond expertise — she exemplifies recognition in the way she communicates, collaborates, and supports others. She models timely, sincere acknowledgement in her daily interactions and encourages leaders and peers to do the same. Her ability to champion recognition with clarity, passion, and consistency has made her the central catalyst for the company’s ongoing momentum in this space. Through her words, actions, and influence, Ava inspires others to prioritise appreciation as an essential part of the employee experience.”
Through her involvement with RPI, Ava continues to grow alongside a community of professionals who share her passion for elevating recognition and appreciation in the workplace, driven by her dedication to an industry centred on celebrating people.
“Professionally, this award affirms my commitment to creating employee experiences rooted in care, connection, and appreciation,” says Ava. “The work of recognition has taught me that even small moments of gratitude can have a lasting impact on culture and belonging. As someone who spends so much time celebrating others, being on the receiving end feels humbling, special, and a beautifully full-circle moment. Thank you!”
View all IMA Summit Award winners on the IMA website.