Each year, the Kootenai County Democrats accept nominations from our Democratic community for two honors: the Art Manley Lifetime Achievement Award and the Rising Star Award. These awards are presented annually at the KC Dems Democracy Dinner, which will be held on February 21, 2026.
We invite you to submit a fully developed nomination letter for one or both awards. Past recipients can be found on the KC Dems website at kootenaidemocrats.org/awards/. Please email your nominations to Paula Neils at neilspaula2@gmail.com by January 3, 2026. A panel of previous award recipients will review the submissions and select this year’s honorees.
Art Manley Lifetime Achievement Award
Nominees should exemplify a deep and sustained commitment to community service that aligns with the principles of the Democratic Party. They embody the spirit, determination, and personal ethics essential to defending our democracy. Ideal nominees are individuals who believe the Democratic Party can positively impact the life of one child, one family, one state, and one nation. They honor our legacy through their past work and are dedicated to continuing that effort toward a better future for all Americans.
Rising Star Award
This award recognizes a newer Democratic activist whose dedication and energy are making a meaningful impact. The Rising Star recipient will be someone who is emerging as a strong voice and presence within our Democratic community; consistently volunteers time and effort to advance Democratic values; contributes fresh ideas that help energize our organization; takes initiative to turn ideas into action; and votes consistently in elections.
