The purpose of the TALS Awards Program is to recognize individuals who have outstanding performance in teaching, research, and/or service in leisure studies and related fields. Below are our current award categories:

• Leadership for the Future Award

• New Researcher Award

• Distinguished Researcher Award

• Excellence in Teaching Award

• Innovation in Teaching Award

• Distinguished Colleague Award

Deadlines and forms for the 2025 award nominations can be found here.

The Future Scholars Program is to provide master’s degree students who are interested (in the next few years) in pursuing a doctorate in an area of study related to leisure studies. Future Scholars have the opportunity to meet some of the outstanding researchers and scholars in the field by attending the Annual Conference on Research and Teaching. During the conference, Future Scholars are paired with a mentor and have an opportunity to interact with scholars in the field. In addition, Future Scholars will attend meetings hosted by The Academy of Leisure Sciences and are encouraged to attend sessions. This will be an excellent opportunity for Future Scholars to ask questions about the field and inquire about doctoral program opportunities.

Information on nomination deadlines and forms for 2025 can be found here.