• The John A. Garza (JAG) Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by the Arizona Industry Liaison Group (AZilg), honors an exceptional practitioner whose career reflects significant and sustained contributions to the Human Resources profession. This recognition celebrates leaders whose work has strengthened employment compliance, advanced equal employment opportunity, and supported inclusive workplaces—core commitments reflected in AZilg’s mission and values.

   

  Established in honor of John A. Garza, President of JAG Specialties, LLC, the award pays tribute to his more than 38 years of dedication to promoting equal employment opportunity, affirmative action, and diversity. Mr. Garza has been an active member of AZilg (formerly the Arizona Affirmative Action Association/Quad A) since 1975, serving in numerous leadership roles including Recording Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, President, and Past President. His legacy embodies the collaborative spirit and commitment to compliance excellence that AZilg strives to uphold.

   

  The JAG Lifetime Achievement Award is presented annually at the AZilg Annual Conference, held each October or November.

  Eligibility Requirements
  To be eligible, nominees must:

• Have a distinguished career marked by leadership in HR/EEO shaping the direction of the field.
• Be recognized by peers as a trusted advisor, mentor, or champion of workplace nondiscrimination.
• Have contributed to policy or program development that strengthened equal opportunity or compliance practices.
• Demonstrate a legacy of developing future HR/EEO leaders through mentorship, coaching, or community engagement.
• Have a body of work that continues to influence organizations, practitioners, or the HR/EEO profession.

Applications must be received no later than July 19, 2026.  Self‑nominations are welcome.

Nomination Form