Over the years, large numbers of SCI Members have willingly given their time and energies to help the Society flourish. SCI has many ways in which the efforts of talented and committed volunteers are recognised; one of the most prized is the Distinguished Service Award. Launched in 2001 (the year the United Nations celebrated the International Year of the Volunteer), this award offers a chance to applaud the enthusiasm, hard work and goodwill of longer-serving Members of all component parts of the Society.
The requirements for the DSA focus on the time and energy that Members put into their activities in support of SCI. The Membership Committee considers the nominations. Nominators are asked to identify the activity that the Nominee has carried out and to provide details of the time period which this activity spans. Activity may be related to Committee Service, working with SCI publications, or any other area that has directly contributed to SCI growth or impact. As the award is for exceptional service, the Nominators are asked to explain some of the important activities that the Nominee undertook and to explain how they were successful.
Nominated by: Any SCI member, or SCI staff member may make a nomination. Members of the Board, major committees and Groups are particularly invited to do so. Nominees should not be informed that they are being nominated, the process should remain confidential.
SCI e-members are not eligible to be nominated, nor to make a nomination, for a Distinguished Service Award.
Eligibility: Service to SCI (via committees, publications, or any other means) deemed to be exceptional by nominator
Application: Nominations can be made via completion of this online application form. Nominators should detail the achievements of their nominee in no more than 500 words.
Description of Award: Certificate
Presented at: SCI AGM or other suitable occasion
Frequency: Annual. Normally, a maximum of three DSAs are presented in any one year.
Nominations Open: 1 September 2025
Nomination Deadline: 5pm 31 March 2026
Nominators and successful nominees are informed of the decision by May following the nomination assessment.
Selected by: Members of SCI's membership subcommittee.
