In recognition of the tireless determination and leadership shown by Jim and Ginette Munson in the pursuit of a better Canada for Autistic people, their families and communities, Autism Alliance of Canada created the Jim and Ginette Munson Autism Leadership Award. This annual award is presented to an Autistic individual living in Canada who has demonstrated the leadership, determination and values that reflect Jim’s and Ginette’s commitment to the creation of a national autism strategy. 

Autism Alliance of Canada is now accepting nominations for the 5th Annual Jim and Ginette Munson Autism Leadership Award. The deadline for nominations is January 15, 2026. The winner will be announced on April 15 during the 12th Annual Canadian Autism Leadership Summit, which runs from April 14 - 16, 2026, in-person in Ottawa and online.

Nominees should embody the following values in their contribution to the Autism sector in Canada:

• Vision, as exemplified by a fulsome understanding of Autism in Canada
• Collaboration, as demonstrated by genuine and inclusive teamwork, with a commitment to promoting engagement with Autistics and government.
• Acceptance, as shown by an understanding of the lives and spectrum of Autistic people living in Canada, and their families.
• Openness to other perspectives, as demonstrated by big picture thinking and the use of evidence as essential to decision making.
• Personal strength and integrity, as displayed by the personal attributes of tenacity, persistence and above all, kindness. 
• Track record of action and impact, as demonstrated by a record of contributions that advance the goal of a better Canada for Autistic people across the country.

Last year’s recipient of the Jim and Ginette Munson Autism Leadership Award was Kelly Bron Johnson (2025), an Autistic and Hard-of-Hearing self-advocate, keynote speaker, and author. For a full list of previous award winners, please visit: autismalliance.ca/cals/cals/munson-award