The registration portal is now open for the 2025 McKnight’s Pinnacle Awards, long-term care’s premier recognition program honoring sector veterans.

“Announcing and honoring these outstanding achievers has clearly become a highlight of the long-term care year, across all association and provider types,” said McKnight’s Publisher Craig Roth in kicking off this year’s program.

Nominees should have 20 or more years of experience in the field and work in the skilled nursing, senior living, home care or related fields. They will be honored for setting standards, driving change, providing guidance and inspiring colleagues and clients around them.

The 2024 honorees included American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living President and CEO Mark Parkinson, LeadingAge Board Chairman Roberto Muniz, as well as more than two dozen other top executives and leaders representing an array of care and service settings.

“Last year’s roster of winners was an incredible collection of women and men who have done themselves and their organizations proud for a long time, and continue to do so,” Roth said. “We look for even more to emerge this year. We encourage all nominations so that others can join this esteemed group.”

Nominations are judged by an independent panel of respected long-term care experts and stakeholders. Multiple winners will be named in each category, as warranted.

The 2025 categories:

  • Agent of Change Award
  • Industry Ally (for elected officials, high-level government administrators, trade group members, analysts and other thought leaders, among others)
  • Inspiration Award
  • Marketplace Influencer Award (for vendors/sponsors who have helped move the sector forward)
  • Setting the Standard Award
  • Thought Leader Award
  • Unsung Hero Award

In addition, one Career Achievement Award will be bestowed, as determined by program organizers.

The standard deadline for nominations is Oct. 16, with an entry fee of $259. Nominations also will be accepted until an extended deadline of Nov. 1 at a rate of $325.

Finalists will be announced Dec. 10, and winners will be recognized at an in-person gala March 20 in Chicago.
Learn more and nominate a deserving candidate here. You also can head to the following pages to read about the 2023 and 2024 winning classes.