The AOS Kessel Award recognizes the most outstanding article by a single or multiple authors published in Ornithology(formerly The Auk) over the preceding two-year period. The award is made in even-numbered years to complement the Painton Award, which is given in odd-numbered years for the best paper published in Ornithological Applications during the preceding two-year period. It consist of a $1,500 cash prize. It is given in honor of Brina Kessel, former President of the AOU (1992-94) and beloved leader and mentor in ornithology. All award nominees are expected to have a high standard of ethical and social behavior that is strongly aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct & Ethics.
Note: In its inaugural year, AOS extended eligibility for the Kessel Award to papers published in the preceding four-year period.
