Nominations Open for the Dan Heisman Award for Excellence in Chess Instruction
US Chess Accepts Nominations for the Prestigious Dan Heisman Award for Excellence in Chess Instruction
[City, State] — US Chess is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the esteemed Dan Heisman Award for Excellence in Chess Instruction. This annual accolade honors a dedicated chess instructor who has shown a long-standing commitment to nurturing chess players and enriching both the chess community and the broader public.
The award, established in 2007 through a generous gift from Dan Heisman, aims to recognize the unsung heroes of the chess world—those instructors who not only teach the game but also inspire and empower their students. “It occurred to me that there was no award recognizing excellence in the field of chess instruction,” Heisman stated. “I thought the time was right to establish an award that celebrates and honors the people behind the players.”
Heisman’s vision extends beyond mere recognition; he hopes to elevate the profile of chess instruction itself. “Acknowledging outstanding chess instructors will create a greater awareness of their indispensable contributions to the game of chess,” he added.
Celebrating Excellence
The Dan Heisman Award is not just about recognizing individual talent; it highlights the vital role that instructors play in the development of chess as a whole. Previous winners include notable figures such as Jay Stallings (2025), Tim Tusing (2024), and Todd Bardwick (2023), each of whom has made significant contributions to the chess community.
Key attributes for potential nominees include:
- A commitment to fostering students of all skill levels
- Length of service in chess instruction
- Contributions to the chess community beyond instruction
To be eligible for nomination, candidates must be US Chess members in good standing and have maintained their membership throughout the award period. Notably, nominees do not need to be certified coaches or have private students; group instructors and those who teach online are equally eligible.
Recognition and Rewards
The winner of the Dan Heisman Award will receive a $500 cash prize, a plaque, and recognition during the U.S. Open awards ceremony, as well as in the US Chess Annual Report. This year, nominations can be submitted online here, with a submission deadline of Friday, May 29, at 5 p.m. CDT.
As the chess community gears up for this year’s nominations, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the invaluable contributions of chess instructors who dedicate their lives to teaching the game. Whether through schools, books, or online platforms, these educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of chess.
For more information about the award and the nomination process, visit the US Chess website or follow the link provided.
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This engaging news story aims to inform and inspire the chess community, encouraging nominations for a prestigious award that celebrates excellence in chess instruction.