ICMA’s Veterans Advisory Committee established the ICMA Veterans Recognition Award to honor high-performing veterans who have transitioned into local government roles and contributed significantly to their communities. The award acknowledges their exceptional service and seeks to challenge and change perceptions and biases against those who have served in the Armed Forces.

The 2024 awardees are exemplary leaders who have used their military experiences to drive meaningful change in their municipalities. The Veterans Advisory Committee is pleased to recognize the following 2024 Veterans Recognition Award recipients.

Nickolaus J. Hernandez, ICMA-CM

A Commitment to Sustainable Growth and Leadership

A U.S. Marine veteran and native of Ford County, Kansas, Nickolaus “Nick” Hernandez has distinguished himself as a leader in local government. Nick has served as city manager of Dodge City, Kansas, since June 2020. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and economic development. Among his many achievements, Nick led the development of an $18 million streetscape project, revitalizing Dodge City’s historic core. His leadership in environmental efforts, including the preservation of the Ogallala Aquifer through wastewater reuse and managed aquifer recharge, secured over $34 million in state and federal funding. Nick’s contributions extend beyond infrastructure; he has been instrumental in fostering community engagement and professional mentorship, reflected in his leadership roles on the ICMA Governance Committee and Kansas League of Municipalities Board. His unwavering dedication to public service and his ability to inspire others make him a deserving recipient of the Veterans Recognition Award.

Michael Douglas

Transforming East Spencer with Visionary Leadership

Michael Douglas, a U.S. Army veteran, has been a transformative force in North Carolina local government since 2016. As the town manager of East Spencer, North Carolina, Michael has spearheaded initiatives that have driven unprecedented growth and development in the town. Under his leadership, East Spencer secured a $23.3 million grant to overhaul its aging water and sewer system, and he managed several significant community development block grants totaling over $4 million. His strategic use of ARPA funds enabled critical upgrades and the creation of a Homeowners Rehabilitation Program, providing financial assistance for home repairs. Michael’s leadership has also fostered substantial residential development, projected to increase the town’s population by 37% over the next four years. His commitment to mentorship is evident in the internship program he established with Livingstone College, providing students with opportunities to pursue careers in local government. Michael’s dedication to his community, combined with his professional excellence, has earned him this prestigious recognition.

Myles Tucker

A Catalyst for Change in Needham, Massachusetts

An Air National Guard veteran, Myles Tucker has made significant contributions to the town of Needham, Massachusetts, in just three years. His efforts in updating select board policies, creating a historic district, and overseeing the recodification of the town’s bylaws have brought about positive change. Myles played a pivotal role in the establishment of Needham’s municipal electricity aggregation program and has been instrumental in modernizing the town’s license and permit processes. His work extends beyond administration. Myles has been a leader in community engagement, responding to a major flooding disaster and implementing the Valor Act’s veterans tax work-off program. Despite his demanding role, Myles continues to serve in the Air National Guard, demonstrating a remarkable ability to balance his commitments. His dedication to local government, veterans, and his community makes him a standout recipient of the Veterans Recognition Award.

Shaun Mulholland

Solving Problems with Innovative Solutions in Lebanon, New Hampshire

Shaun Mulholland, a U.S. Army veteran, has been a driving force behind innovative solutions in Lebanon, New Hampshire. As city manager, Shaun addressed the city’s housing shortage by leading the development of affordable housing for municipal employees, funded through grants rather than taxpayer dollars. He also partnered with a nonprofit to build a new childcare center, both critical to Lebanon’s economic development. Shaun’s leadership extends to his role as a mentor and advocate for local government professionals across New Hampshire. He has received numerous accolades, including “New Hampshire Emergency Management Director of the Year” and “NHMA Russ Marcoux Municipal Advocate of the Year.” Shaun’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in his efforts to modernize procurement processes, enhance environmental sustainability, and support his staff in delivering high-quality public services. His visionary leadership and dedication to solving complex challenges make him a deserving recipient of the Veterans Recognition Award.

These four recipients exemplify the leadership, dedication, and service that the Veterans Recognition Award seeks to honor. Their contributions to local government not only improve their communities but also serve as a testament to the invaluable skills and perspectives that veterans bring to public service. Through their efforts, they are helping to reshape perceptions and demonstrate the profound impact veterans can have in municipal leadership roles. The next time you receive a job application from someone with military service, consider giving them a chance. You won’t regret it!

For additional information about ICMA’s veterans programs, visit icma.org/topics/veterans or by following us on LinkedIn. Reach out to the ICMA military outreach senior program manager at veterans@icma.org. You can also contact the Veterans Advisory Committee chair, Peter Troedsson, at peter.troedsson@albanyoregon.gov.