The Canadian Society of Corporate Secretaries announces the launch of the second annual Excellence in Governance Awards (EGs).

TORONTO, Jan. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - The Canadian Society of Corporate Secretaries ("CSCS") announces that the nominations are now open for the second annual Excellence in Governance Awards/Prix d'excellence en gouvernance (EGs). The highly respected jury will select the winners for the awards which will be announced and celebrated on August 24, 2014 in Banff, Alberta at the CSCS' 16th Annual Conference.

The CSCS EG Awards recognize the important contribution that governance professionals make in terms of best practices that build and sustain shareholder and stakeholder value in Canada. The awards also underscore the critical role that good governance plays in sustaining the value of Canada's public companies, crown corporations, government agencies, and not-for-profit organizations, and in contributing to the competitiveness of Canada's economy and its capital markets.

The Excellence in Governance Awards jury panel is composed of seasoned and well-respected governance thought leaders from across Canada. CSCS has carefully selected the judges to ensure representation from all aspects of the governance community including shareholder representatives, regulatory experts, leading academics and practitioners.

Candidates eligible for nomination include individuals and/or teams of individuals who play a role in the governance of their organizations. The deadline for nominations is April 8, 2014, and the shortlist of finalists for the awards will be announced in June 2014.

CSCS will seek nominations in the following award categories:

• Best sustainability, ethics and environmental governance program
• Best use of technology in governance, risk and compliance
• Best approach to board and committee support
• Best stakeholder engagement by a governance team
• Best practices in managing boardroom diversity
• Best practices in strategic planning, oversight and value creation by the board
• Best overall corporate governance
• Joyce Borden-Reed CSCS distinguished contribution award
• CSCS (Peter Dey) Governance Achievement Award

CSCS expects that the recognition that the winners, nominees and their organizations will gain from these awards will raise more awareness for the key role played by governance professionals, further the reputation of their organizations, and inspire others to follow their example.

About the Canadian Society of Corporate Secretaries (CSCS)

The Canadian Society of Corporate Secretaries is recognized as the most important organization for corporate governance professionals in Canada.

As the principal advocate for those who work in corporate governance, CSCS strives to enhance the public's awareness of the importance of good governance. CSCS is the voice of corporate governance professionals in Canada and participates with other stakeholders, including capital markets participants, government bodies and regulators, in fostering a governance environment that sets Canada apart in the world. CSCS supports its membership with continuing education and networking opportunities that are second to none.

SOURCE: Canadian Society of Corporate Secretaries