The Provider ACE (Achieving Care Excellence) Awards, formerly known as the AHCA/NCAL Awards Program, are now accepting nominations for the 2026 award cycle.
While the name and look are new, the heart of the program remains the same: honoring individuals who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional care, lead with purpose, and strengthen the profession.
For 2026, AHCA/NCAL is accepting nominations for the following awards:
- AHCA Leader of the Year Award
- AHCA Noble Caregiver Award
- NCAL Leader of the Year Award
- NCAL Noble Caregiver Award
- Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award
- Jan Thayer Pioneer Award
All care professionals working in AHCA/NCAL member facilities are encouraged to apply, including those serving in skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ICFs/IID), and other individuals who work in the long term care field, including direct care, education, and research.
Successful entrants will be honored at Delivering Solutions 26, AHCA/NCAL's 77th Convention & Expo in Boston, Massachusetts, October 11-14, 2026.
The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern.Please note that in order to submit a nomination, you must create a free Award Force account, AHCA/NCAL's awards platform. Please reach out to the
ACE Awards inbox with questions about submitting a nomination.