Protecting the credibility of every award
Applied at every stage of an award
To protect the credibility of its awards, HIAHEA operates according to nine governing principles. Each applies at every stage, from nomination through to conferral and record keeping.
Eligibility
Nominations are considered only where published eligibility conditions are met.
Evidence-based assessment
Decisions rest on documented evidence rather than reputation or association.
Defined criteria
Each award carries criteria that are published before nominations open.
Independent consideration
Where applicable, assessment is carried out independently of the nominating party.
Documentation
Nomination material and assessment notes are recorded in full.
Verification
Claims are checked against institutional, employer, or professional sources.
Transparency
Process, criteria, and outcomes are communicated clearly to all parties.
Record keeping
Conferral records are retained so any award can be traced and confirmed.
Ethical recognition
Recognition is never conferred on a basis other than demonstrated achievement.
Every decision leaves a record
Nomination material, assessment notes, verification steps, and conferral decisions are documented and retained, so any award can be traced back to the evidence behind it.
Questions about eligibility or process?
The awards office can confirm criteria, evidence requirements, and timelines before a nomination is prepared.