2007 Special Achievement in GIS Awards Announced

The Academy Awards celebrate excellence in the movies. The Tonys honor Broadway's best. And Esri lauds the accomplishments of the GIS community through the Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Awards.

More than 900 people gathered at the 2007 Esri International User Conference last month to honor 165 organizations that use GIS technology to make a difference in the world. Light reflected off the awards lining the front of Hall A of the San Diego Convention Center where the ceremony was held June 20 for the winners, who were joined by their guests and supporters.

The ceremony began as Roger Tomlinson, known as the "father of GIS," introduced Esri president Jack Dangermond. "Jack is a friend and has earned my respect and friendship," he said. "You have earned Jack's friendship as well. We are all friends in this room."

Focusing on the extraordinary accomplishments of the winners, Dangermond praised them for their dedication. "To make a successful system takes a lot of work," he said. "Someone starts with an idea, and it has to be sold and designed. You have to figure out what is needed and get management support. Most of you are the last to leave the parking lot at night."

Dangermond noted each winner's remarkable efforts. "Each of you makes a difference," he said. "Nothing I can say can give your story justice. Tell your story to other GIS professionals so they know what it takes to do what you've done. Your work raises the field to another level." See which organizations won SAG Awards.