Nominations Open for Lake Leadership Awards

Nominations are open for awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the Smith Mountain Lake community. Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) is seeking nominations for the Melvin S. Johnston Citizen Volunteer Award and the SMLA Spirit of the Lake Award. 

Nominations can be made via online form available at the SMLA website or by printing and completing the appropriate nomination form. Forms can be delivered in person or by mail to the SMLA office, 400 Scruggs Rd, Suite 2100, Moneta, VA 24121. 

Nominations for 2026 awards must be received by August 31.

The Melvin S. Johnston Citizen Volunteer Award is named in honor of Melvin Johnston, the founder of SMLA, real estate broker, land developer, and philanthropist. This award is presented to one or more people who have made the greatest contribution to the quality of life at Smith Mountain Lake. 

The SMLA Spirit of the Lake Award recognizes people, groups, businesses and organizations that cumulatively make up the Spirit of the Lake. This award may be presented to one or more nominees who routinely demonstrate support for the lake community.

Criteria for both awards are listed at the SMLA website. Note that prior recipients of each award are ineligible for the same award. Previous winners are listed on the Annual Awards page of the SMLA website.