Purpose
The American Hungarian Educators Association established this Award in 2009 to recognize outstanding contributions to the advancement of the purposes and activities of the AHEA.

The Award
The award will be known as the "Péter Basa  Award of the American Hungarian Educators Association".

Péter Basa was a founding member of the AHEA in 1975 and was active in it until his death in 2000. Beyond that, he supported Hungarian cultural programs and American-Hungarian initiatives (Smithsonian Bicentennial; Hungarian Picnic for students and young professionals in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, etc.). He contributed freely of his time and energy to ensure the continuing development and long-term existence of the AHEA.

He was responsible primarily for recognizing the need to orient the activities of the Association toward the broader aspects of Hungarian culture and, with this in mind, he stimulated the interest and participation of educators active in Hungarian studies. In recognition of his vision, sustained efforts, and contributions to the growth and development of the AHEA, this award carries his name.

The Award is a framed certificate, to be presented at the annual banquet in conjunction with the AHEA conference. Printing and framing of the certificate as well as any banquet dinner costs of the awardee will be paid for by the AHEA.

Scope
The granting of the Péter Basa Award shall be based upon the following qualifications: Active membership in the AHEA for at least ten years; significant contributions and work on behalf of its programs; active participation in other Hungarian American cultural matters. Publications are valued, but these should not be the chief criterion. Organizing conferences, or significant help in them, is a plus.

Nominations for the Award may be submitted by any AHEA member in good standing, using the Nomination Form below.

The Board of Directors of the AHEA will select the recipient. The President will notify the awardee and will proceed with the preparation of the certificate to be presented at the AHEA conference the same year.