Vanguard Awards for FY25 Announced

Established in 2015, the DoW Small Business Vanguard Awards Program recognizes the exceptional contributions of DoW small business professionals and members of the acquisition community that influence small business participation in Defense procurements. The awards process is managed on behalf of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment (USW(A&S)) by the Director, Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP). The nominees selected for the awards demonstrated
excellence and significantly contributed to the small business mission during the period of October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
 

The Revolutionary Leadership Award 

Recognizes individual who lead by example to overcome barriers and drive innovative small business inclusion across the DoW marketplace. The FY25 recipient is Daniele Kurze, Defense Logistics Agency. View the video>>
 

The Ms. Tracey L. Pinson Small Business Professional of the Year Award 

Honors individuals who champion small business growth and sustainability in alignment with the DoW mission and embody Tracey L. Pinson's legacy. The FY25 recipient is Ashley M. Farrier, U.S. Special Operations Command. View the video>>
 

The Verdure Award 

Recognizes teams developing innovative acquisition strategies that increase small business participation and strengthen the defense industrial base. The FY25 recipient is the Army Materiel Command Office of Small Business Programs. View the Video>>
 

The Vanguard Award 

This top small business award is presented to the DoD component organization that best exemplifies a commitment to small business programs in a variety of functional activities. The FY25 recipient is the Department of the Navy, Office of Small Business Program. View the video>>