The 2024 USGS Honor Awards Ceremony, held on December 5, 2024, marked a vibrant celebration of the exceptional contributions made by members of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This live, virtual event spanned from 1 to 2:30 pm EST and brought together employees, partners, and stakeholders from across the globe to acknowledge outstanding achievements and foster a sense of community within the agency.

During the ceremony, various individuals were recognized for their remarkable dedication and innovative projects that have significantly advanced scientific research and understanding. Attendees were given the opportunity to view a comprehensive presentation of award categories and winners. This included the prestigious Shoemaker Award for Communication Excellence, honoring those who have excelled in communicating complex scientific information to the public in an engaging and comprehensible manner, and the Eugene M. Shoemaker Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating a career of distinguished service and impact.

In addition to individual accolades, teams that demonstrated exceptional collaborative efforts across offices and disciplines were highlighted. These teams tackled complex geological, hydrological, and ecological challenges, providing critical data and solutions to support national policy and emergency responses.

The event was accessible to a wide audience through its multimedia resources. Viewers could watch a recorded video of the ceremony, which included closed captions for accessibility, and access detailed transcripts along with presentation slides. This commitment to inclusivity ensured that the impact of these recognitions reached both participants in real-time and those exploring USGS initiatives and achievements afterward.

The ceremony underscored the organization's mission to provide reliable scientific information that helps policymakers and the public make informed decisions about the natural world. Through celebrating the hard work and achievements of its members, USGS continues to inspire scientific excellence and leadership in managing the nation's diverse and dynamic natural resources.

By showcasing these accomplishments, the 2024 USGS Honor Awards Ceremony not only honored its dedicated workforce but also highlighted the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration in addressing the pressing environmental challenges of our time. The acknowledgment of these efforts forges a path forward, encouraging a culture of recognition and motivation, boosting morale, and reinforcing the essential role of scientific inquiry in shaping a sustainable future.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI