The National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) is proud to announce the recipients of its inaugural Procurement Impact Award and Academic Collaboration Recognition, presented at the NASPO Annual Conference on September 11, 2024.

The Procurement Impact Award recognizes a project or state initiative that demonstrates exceptional collaboration between state procurement offices and state departments/agencies. This year’s winner is the State of California for its Generative Artificial Intelligence in Procurement Operations Project. The project aims to leverage AI to improve efficiency, effectiveness, accessibility, and equity in state government operations.

The Academic Collaboration Recognition honors outstanding partnerships between state agencies and local colleges and universities. This year’s recipient is Michigan State University. Their collaboration has been instrumental in developing future procurement talent and inspiring the next generation of public servants. State of Michigan Chief Procurement Official, and NASPO Board member Jared Ambrosier and his office are highly engaged with MSU, as Jared sits on the MSU Supply Chain Management Council, and he has filled several student internship opportunities in his office through this relationship.

“We are thrilled to recognize these innovative projects and partnerships,” said Valerie Bollinger, NASPO Board President. “These initiatives exemplify the power of collaboration and the positive impact that public procurement can have on our communities.”

About the Procurement Impact Award: The Procurement Impact Award is presented with award partners the National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) and the National Governors Association (NGA). The award highlights high-priority projects identified by governors’ offices that promote collaboration between departments.

About the Academic Collaboration Recognition: The Academic Collaboration Recognition is designed to encourage and recognize outstanding partnerships between state agencies and local universities. These collaborations help recruit and develop future procurement talent and inspire the next generation of public servants.

About NASPO: NASPO is a non–profit association dedicated to advancing public procurement through leadership, excellence, and integrity. It is made up of the directors of the central purchasing offices in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories of the United States. NASPO is an organization that helps its members achieve success as public procurement leaders through the promotion of best practices, education, professional development, research, and innovative procurement strategies. www.naspo.org

Media Contact: 
Kate Davila
Director of Marketing and Communications, NASPO
kdavila@naspo.org