The Irvin Katz Memorial Award

Irvin W. Katz, one of the founding members of IECA, lived his life in service to others as a mentor to countless consultants and as a steward for community volunteerism.

In 2006, his family established The Irvin Katz Memorial Award to honor those members of IECA who make extraordinary voluntary contributions of their time and talents to community organizations that benefit the educational needs, health and well-being of all our children. The Katz Award is presented annually at the IECA Conference, recognizing a member's significant charitable volunteer efforts on behalf of a nonprofit organization. The recipient of this prestigious award will receive $2,000 to be donated to the nonprofit they have supported. This award serves as an opportunity to celebrate individuals who embody the spirit of service that Irvin so passionately represented.

Nominate a deserving consultant today and help us honor the enduring legacy of Irvin W. Katz by highlighting the incredible impact our members have within their communities!

Nominations are currently closed and will reopen in Winter 2027.

Recipient Qualifications

Professional Member or Associate Member with at least 5 years of membership to IECA—regardless of Professional or Associate designation.
Nominations are for individuals, not companies. Note: an exception could be made if a company and all of its consultant employees/partners have contributed significantly to the development or expansion of a project.
Demonstrated significant community service with a nonprofit organization that aligns with IECA Foundation’s mission- to help underserved youth and young adults map pathways to success.
A recipient of the Katz Award cannot be nominated again for a period of time of 5 years.
If nominated for the award, but not a recipient, a person can be nominated again the following year.
Personal volunteer work to a nominee’s child’s school, to their church or synagogue, should not be considered unless it is a special project that benefits the community as a whole.

Questions? Contact IECA Foundation Program Director, Rocio Gosende

2026 Recipient
Laura Seese

The IECA Foundation is thrilled to announce that IECA Professional Member Laura Seese has been selected as the 2026 Katz Award recipient in recognition of her dedicated service to underserved students through H2O Planet.

“H2O Planet” is a 501c3 Nonprofit Educational Charity focused on Environmental Sustainability, Social Justice, and At-Risk Youth. Founded by Volunteer Divers, they work with underserved families (which are racially, economically, or academically diverse), train Emergency First Responders, conduct Underwater Trash Clean-Ups, and protect endangered marine life throughout New England.

Learn more about H2O Planet here!