Award Levels and Deadlines
The Torch Awards
The Torch Awards recognize individual members who reach new heights across seven achievement categories throughout their BPA journey, from first-year involvement to lifetime achievement.
Members log activities and points throughout the year through the Torch Awards portal. Advisors verify submissions before each award level is finalized.
Download the Torch Awards category guide to see which activities count toward each of the seven achievement areas.
Award Levels
Members log their activities in the Torch Awards Portal. Each activity earns 5, 10, 15, or 20 points. When members meet the required points in all categories, they become eligible for one of four award levels.
All BPA members in the Middle Level, Secondary, and Postsecondary Divisions are eligible to participate.
Executive Torch Award
Given at the chapter level, the Executive Torch Award requires 10 points in each Torch category. An Executive is defined as “a person having administrative or managerial authority in an organization.”
Submission Deadline: Varies
Recognition: Pin and Certificate
Diplomat Torch Award
Depending on your state, this award might be awarded at the local, regional or state level. The Diplomat Torch Award requires 30 points in each Torch category. A Diplomat is defined as “one skilled with tact in dealing with people.”
Submission Deadline: Varies
Recognition: Pin and Certificate
Statesman Torch Award
Given at the state level, the Statesman Torch Award requires 50 points in each Torch category. A Statesman is defined as “one who is a leader in the promotion of the public good and in national affairs.”
Submission Deadline: Varies
Recognition: Pin and certificate (otherwise varies by state)
Ambassador Torch Award
Given at the national level, the Ambassador Torch Award requires 70 points in each Torch Category. An Ambassador is defined as “a diplomatic official of the highest rank appointed and accredited as a representative of the organization.”
Submission Deadline: March 15, 2026
Recognition: Pin and certificate, Recognition at the National Leadership Conference
Start Your Torch Awards Journey
Log your activities, earn points in all seven categories, and work toward your first Torch Award level.
Ready to Start Earning?
Talk to your chapter advisor about logging your first Torch Awards activities this year.
