The Phyllis Campbell Newsome Public Policy Leadership Award was named in honor of the Center for Nonprofit Advancement’s former director of advocacy and community relations after her untimely passing in 2003. The award was created to highlight the work of elected or non-elected officials who have gone above and beyond in partnership with the nonprofit sector to ensure more vibrant communities.
Each year, the Center honors four public officials with this award. One official is recognized from each of the jurisdictions the Center supports including, the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and Montgomery and Prince George’s counties.
Annually, the Center asks its membership to nominate a public official in their respective jurisdiction who has shown exemplary work on behalf of nonprofits during the year. Awards are presented each fall at the Center's Annual Celebration.