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BILL CONNOLLY RISING STAR AWARDS

The Bill Connolly Rising Star Awards honor editors in the early stages of their careers who are already contributing meaningfully to their organizations, their communities, and the profession. Nominations are open from September 1 to October 15.

Submit your nomination

About the Bill Connolly Rising Star Awards

Each year, ACES recognizes emerging editors whose work shows strong impact, initiative, and commitment to the craft.

Named for Bill Connolly, a founding ACES member and former president of the ACES Education Fund, the awards reflect his dedication to supporting editors and strengthening the profession.

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Why nominate someone (or yourself)

Recognize early impact
Some editors stand out early by improving how teams communicate and how content works.

Highlight growth and potential
This award celebrates editors who are not only doing strong work but actively developing their skills and expanding their impact.

Celebrate contributions beyond the job description
Many rising editors teach, advocate, or contribute to the broader editing community.

Support the next generation of editors
A nomination helps recognize the people shaping where the profession is going.

Who can be nominated

Candidates must:

  • Have 10 years or less of experience in editing
  • Be an ACES member in good standing

You may nominate yourself.
You may nominate multiple people.

If multiple nominations are submitted for the same candidate, judges will review the most complete submission.

Award categories

Each recipient is recognized in one of three categories. Nominators may suggest a category, but judges may reassign it.

Innovation
New approaches to editing, language, or workflows that improve how work gets done

Outreach and Advocacy
Teaching, mentoring, or promoting editing within organizations or communities

Excellence and Achievement
Outstanding editing work and measurable impact on content, teams, or audiences

How to participate

Submit the following through the nomination form:

  • A summary of the nominee’s experience (resume, CV, or brief bio)
  • A nomination statement (up to 800 words) explaining their contributions and impact
  • The category you are nominating them for
  • Two references with contact information
  • Optional supporting materials (work samples, letters, additional references)

You will also provide basic contact details and a headshot for the nominee in case they are selected.

Submit your nomination

How selection works

Judges include industry leaders who review the nomination statement, supporting materials, and reference feedback.

A head judge oversees the process and only votes in the case of a tie. Judges may choose not to present an award if submissions do not meet the standard.

Decisions are final except under extraordinary circumstances.

Ready to nominate a rising editor?

Help recognize the next generation of editors making a real impact. Submit your nomination before October 15.

Submit your nomination

Questions

Please direct inquiries to info@aceseditors.org. We welcome your questions and suggestions.