Purpose of the award — The ABE (Award for Barbershop Excellence) is the highest award given to an Illinois District Barbershopper. It is given in recognition for significant, sustained achievement in barbershopping.
When is it given — The award is presented during the Quartet Contest finals.
Who presents the award — The award is presented by the winner of the ABE from the prior year.
What criteria are used — A recipient for the ABE is a person who, district-wide stands alone, an individual who, by his actions and talents best exemplifies the ideals of our craft. He is nominated by chapter presidents and all living past ABE Recipients. He is selected, by a vote of all living past ABE Recipients.
How is the information obtained — The Awards Committee sends a solicitation letter to all of the District Governance and Operations Team, Chapter Presidents, past ABE Recipients and Past District Presidents for nominations. Resumes are obtained and a list of nominees, with resumes, is sent to all of the past ABE recipients who vote their choice.
What is the physical award — The physical award is usually something special, currently a clock with engraving. He also has his name engraved on a plate on a traveling trophy that he keeps for the year of his reign.
