October 8th, 2025
GIS Certification Institute Launches New Awards Program to Honor Excellence in the Geospatial Profession

Des Plaines, IL — October 7th, 2025 — The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is proud to announce the launch of two new GISCI awards to recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify the highest standards of service, innovation, and leadership in the geospatial profession.

The new awards will expand recognition of exceptional work in the geospatial field, in addition to the annual Map Contest:

• GISP® of the Year— GISCI’s highest individual honor, celebrating distinguished and sustained contributions to the profession and the public interest.
• GISP® Organization of the Year— Recognizing organizations that demonstrate exceptional support for GISP® certification and embody GISCI’s values of ethical practices, professional development, and service to the public good.

The Awards Program is overseen by the GISCI Board of Directors through an appointed Awards Committee. A panel of judges will make all final determinations, with deliberations remaining confidential.

Nominations are now open for the inaugural awards cycle, with submissions due by October 31st, 2025. Individuals may nominate themselves, colleagues, or organizations by completing the official nomination form. More information, including eligibility criteria and the nomination form, can be found on the GISCI Awards Program webpage.

About GISCI 
The GIS Certification Institute (GISCI) is a nonprofit that supports and advances excellence in the geospatial profession. Through our internationally recognized certification programs—GISP® (Certified GIS Professional) and GISP-E® (Emerging GIS Professional)—we set and uphold high standards of competency, integrity, and service in the GIS field.