Mignon Waterman Award

The Mignon Waterman Award honors outstanding leadership and innovation in improving behavioral health systems across Montana. Named after the late Mignon Waterman, who was a passionate advocate for strengthening mental health and substance use disorder care, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions through leadership, partnerships, and impact within the field of behavioral health. The award offers a $10,000 monetary prize, which is granted to the organization that employs the selected individual. This ensures the funds benefit the broader mission of the nominee’s work. Only Montana-based organizations are eligible to submit nominations. These include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, universities, state and local government agencies, and tribal governments. Nomination submissions for the 2025 award cycle will open on August 1 and close on September 15. Decisions will be shared with nominating organizations by October 15, and the official public announcement of the award recipient will occur in November. Nominations must be submitted by a qualifying organization on behalf of an individual whose work exemplifies excellence and innovation in behavioral health. The award highlights leadership that promotes systemic improvement, cross-sector collaboration, and sustainable community impact in mental health and addiction care. This recognition supports ongoing progress in behavioral health services and celebrates transformative contributions within the state of Montana.

Be specific and evidence-based when detailing the nominee’s leadership and contributions. Ensure the nominating organization meets geographic and organizational criteria.