A Bit of History

The Shining Light Awards honor individuals who are making important contributions to regional cooperation, progress, and understanding in metropolitan Detroit.  Our purpose is to give broad exposure to people who are making difficult decisions to further regional cooperation and encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

The Shining Light Awards were launched in 2007 in a special “naming ceremony” honoring individuals well known for their extraordinary contributions to metropolitan Detroit – Neal Shine, Mike and Marian Ilitch, Eleanor Josaitis, and Dave Bing. Subsequent award winners were selected through a public nomination process. (For more information on honorees, click here.)

Logo for the Shining Light Regional Cooperation Awards, presented by Detroit Free Press and Metropolitan Affairs Coalition, featuring a city skyline and rising sun.

Our Mission

The Shining Light Awards honor individuals making important contributions to regional cooperation, progress, and understanding in metropolitan Detroit. Our purpose is to:

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Honor Origins and Purpose

Celebrate Neal Shine’s legacy and advance the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition’s mission by championing effective regional cooperation throughout Southeast Michigan.
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Recognize Impactful Leadership

Spotlight diverse, accomplished leaders—including young and unsung individuals—and elevate their courageous actions driving regional collaboration and progress.
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Strengthen Our Region

Showcase significant contributions that enhance Southeast Michigan’s unique character, improve the overall quality of life, and foster community well-being.
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Inspire Collaborative Action

Encourage others throughout the community to follow the inspiring example of cooperation set by honorees making a positive difference across our region.

Why Recognize Current and Emerging Regional Leaders?

The Shining Light Awards highlight the critical importance of regional cooperation to the success of Southeast Michigan. To be truly competitive in today’s challenging global economy, a region needs a cooperative spirit and good working relationships among all of its people, institutions and governments. These awards are a powerful symbol of our potential as a region if we work together toward a common vision for a more cohesive and prosperous community.

Building cooperation and teamwork between communities and sectors can be a challenging and sometimes unrewarding task. Individuals who take risks by thinking and acting regionally should be honored and rewarded for their courage and fortitude. In showcasing their leadership, these regional awards also promote role models who may encourage others to take the initiative to look beyond their own boundaries and act for the greater good.

A large group of attendees mingle and network during the Shining Light Regional Cooperation Awards reception inside a modern event space.