CSG South is proud of our members, our leaders, and the states they represent. Throughout the year, we present a series of awards to recognize valuable contributions made by our government officials and staff in the 15 state southern region.


Florida Department of Corrections Receives 2026 STAR Award | SLC 2026 - Florida Mobile Probation Unit
The Florida Department of Corrections’ Mobile Reentry Units receive the 2026 State Transformation in Action Recognition (STAR) Award during the 80th Annual Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) Closing Reception and State Dinner in Lexington, Kentucky.
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State Transformation in Action Recognition (STAR)

The Southern Legislative Conference’s State Transformation in Action Recognition (STAR) award recognizes impactful, creative, effective, and transferable state government solutions. Innovative program submissions are accepted from a wide array of state agencies, departments, and institutions operating within the executive, legislative, and judicial governmental branches.

PAST WINNERS

Carter/Hellard Legislative Staff Award

Presented annually since 1990, the Carter/Hellard Legislative Staff Award is given to a staff member who has demonstrated excellence and dedication in service to Southern state legislatures. Named in honor of the late Sam Carter, Director of Research of the South Carolina House of Representatives, and the late Vic Hellard, Jr., Director of the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission, this award is selected by the Legislative Service Agency Directors Group.

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Jeff Billings, chief of staff to the speaker of the house, receives the 2026 Carter/Hellard Legislative Staff Award during the 80th Annual Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) Closing Reception and State Dinner in Lexington, Kentucky.

Missouri Representative Dirk Deaton receives the 2026 Thomas B. Murphy Legacy Award during the 80th Annual Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) Closing Reception and State Dinner in Lexington, Kentucky.
Missouri Representative Dirk Deaton receives the 2026 Thomas B. Murphy Legacy Award during the 80th Annual Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) Closing Reception and State Dinner in Lexington, Kentucky.

Thomas B. Murphy Legacy Award

The Thomas B. Murphy Legacy Award, formally known as the Longevity of Service Award, is presented to a Southern state legislator who has distinguished themselves by dutifully serving their constituents during their years in the legislature and actively participating in the Southern Legislative Conference.

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