From its inception in 1989 through to 2002, The DAMA Individual Achievement Awards have recognized a data professional who has made significant, demonstrable contributions to the information resource management industry consistent with DAMA International's vision.  Beginning in 2003, DAMA created additional categories to recognize more people who have made special contributions to the world of data management.  The awards categories are:

Academic Achievement Award
To a member from academia for outstanding research or theoretical contributions in the area of IRM/DRM 

DAMA Community Award
To a member of the DAMA community who has gone beyond the call of volunteer service to enhance the efforts of providing exceptional benefits to the DAMA Membership.

Government Achievement Award
To a member of the leadership populace for instituting the inclusion and adherence to DRM/IRM principles.

Professional Achievement Award
To a member from the ‘industry’ (business, discipline, specialist) who has made significant, demonstrable contributions to the IRM/DRM.

In 2002, a special Lifetime Achievement and Contribution Award was presented to John Zachman.

The general timeline for the award process:

• August: nominations by chapter boards of directors
• September: voting by chapter boards of directors
• March / April: announcement of the winner at the annual DAMA International Symposium

For more information contact the chair of the awards committee, via Awards@dama.org. Individuals who would like to participate in the nomination and voting process are urged to contact the board of their local chapter, to submit a candidate's name, biography and accomplishment statement for consideration.

Past Award Recipients

(The Data Management Hall of Fame)