Since 1999, TESOL International Association has recognized individuals who have advocated for and on behalf of the ESL/EFL profession and English language learners. Each year the host affiliate for the annual convention has an opportunity to nominate an individual for recognition.
Past honorees have included: | 2002 | State Sen. Pete Suazo | nominated by Intermountain TESOL |
| 2003 | Dr. Alvin Thornton | nominated by Maryland TESOL |
| 2004 | Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg | nominated by CATESOL |
| 2006 | Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz
| nominated by Sunshine State TESOL |
| 2007 | Sen. Maria Cantwell
| nominated by WAESOL |
| 2008 | Rep. Tim Bishop
| nominated by NYS TESOL |
| 2009 | Rep. Jared Polis
| nominated by COTESOL |
| 2010 | State Rep. Jeffrey Sánchez
| nominated by MATSOL |
| 2011 | David A. M. Ware, Esq.
| nominated by LaTESOL |