The management development carried out in partnership between the Vinson Institute and the Georgia chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) has been recognized with a national award.

For its continuing dedication to professional training, the Georgia chapter was recently tapped to receive APWA's Donald C. Stone Award for Meritorious Achievement in Continuing and Graduate Professional Education for Public Works Professionals. The award has only one winner each year in North America.

"The Certificate of Public Works Management continues to be one of the benefits that we offer our members that has directly increased the size of our chapter and has strengthened the commitment to excellence in public works leadership throughout the state and the region," said Mike Joyner, Georgia chapter administrator.

Since its inception nearly 10 years ago, more than 100 public works managers from throughout the Southeast have completed the 90-hour, three-year professional development program. In 2004, the program was the first to be officially approved by APWA and is the only one affiliated with a university.

"We have worked hard to ensure rigor in the program and are thrilled that our efforts in close collaboration with the Georgia chapter have resulted in this recognition," said Walt McBride, Vinson Institute faculty member and coordinator of the training.