Don Rider Transparency Award

Purpose

Established in 2021, the Don Rider Transparency in Government Award recognizes Oklahoma municipal governments and municipal employees who exemplify the principles of transparency in both the letter and the spirit of the law.

Don Rider was a driving force behind the creation and passage of Oklahoma's two landmark transparency laws—the Open Records Act and the Open Meeting Act. His leadership strengthened the relationship between citizens and their government by ensuring public access to governmental meetings and records. This award honors those who continue his legacy by promoting open, accountable, and transparent government.

Eligibility

Nominees must be:

  • An Oklahoma municipal government or

  • An employee of an Oklahoma municipality that is a current member of the Oklahoma Municipal League.

Selection Criteria

Nominees should demonstrate outstanding achievement in one or more of the following areas:

  • Promotes public understanding of governmental processes, decisions, and challenges.

  • Demonstrates a commitment to the public's right to know through open, honest, and transparent government.

  • Builds public confidence by fostering trust, accountability, and credibility in governmental actions.

  • Encourages meaningful citizen engagement and public participation in local government.

  • Provides accessible public information and educates citizens on how to obtain and effectively use government information.

  • Uses transparency to improve government services, encourage innovation, and strengthen community relationships.

Nomination Requirements

A complete nomination must include:

  • A Letter of Nomination (maximum two pages) describing the nominee's accomplishments and commitment to transparency in government. The letter should include:

    • Length of service (if applicable)

    • Positions held

    • Community involvement

    • Specific examples demonstrating leadership in transparency and open government

  • Up to two (2) Letters of Recommendation from community, state, or national leaders.

  • A recent photograph of the nominee.

Nominations may be submitted online by clicking here. (add link)

Judging Process (Summary)

Nominations will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges appointed by the Oklahoma Municipal League consisting of:

  • Two (3) members of the Oklahoma Municipal League Board of Directors;

  • One (1) previous recipient of the Don Rider Transparency in Government Award (when available); and

  • One (1) representative from the Oklahoma Press Association.

Judges will evaluate each nomination based on the published selection criteria, considering the nominee's demonstrated commitment to transparency, public access to information, public engagement, accountability, and the overall impact of their efforts on strengthening public trust in municipal government.

In the event a previous recipient is unavailable, the Oklahoma Municipal League President may appoint an alternate judge with experience in municipal government or government transparency.

Timeline

Nominations Accepted Year-round

Annual Deadline for Consideration August 4

Committee Review August 10–20

Notification of Recipient Late August

Award Presentation OML Annual Conference Awards Banquet

Questions?

For additional information, please contact:

Cynthia Madrid Oklahoma Municipal League cmadrid@oml.org

Submit Nomination
Judging Form