Soaring Eagle Award Dinner

Agency Briefings

Get an inside look at what to expect in upcoming federal projects and programs.

Industry Government Engagement (IGE)

Collaborate with industry and government leaders on key acquisition topics.

SAME Foundation Dinner and Gala

Join us for the Soaring Eagle Awards Dinner & Gala as we celebrate excellence in engineering leadership.

Networking Opportunities

Meet with colleagues and senior decision-makers throughout the A/E/C sector.

Presented by the SAME Foundation

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | 6:30 - 10:00 PM

Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
5701 Marinelli Rd, Rockville, MD 20852

Dress Code: Cocktail or Business Attire

Join us for the Soaring Eagle Awards Dinner & Gala during SAME’s Capital Week in Rockville, Md., as we celebrate excellence in engineering leadership.

The Soaring Eagle Award honors visionary leadership that elevates the A/E/C industry and inspires the next generation of STEM professionals. This prestigious national recognition celebrates individuals whose bold leadership, innovative thinking, and dedication to mentorship are shaping a smarter, more resilient future for the architecture, engineering, and construction community. The Soaring Eagle Award event is for SAME members and non-members.

Honoring the 2026 Inaugural Recipient

In 2026, we proudly recognize Terri Mestas, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Sound Transit, as the inaugural recipient of the Soaring Eagle Award. Terri’s career reflects the highest standards of leadership, service, and forward thinking innovation.Read Terri's Bio here.

What This Award Represents

The Soaring Eagle Award is presented to a transformational leader who exemplifies the highest ideals of courage, integrity, and vision—qualities that strengthen the A/E/C profession and inspire future generations.

Cornerstones of Leadership

Courage – Fearless innovation in high-risk or high-impact arenas
Integrity – Trustworthy, transparent leadership rooted in service
Vision – Foresight that redefines what’s possible and prepares us for tomorrow

Soaring Eagle Corporate & Individual Benefactor Opportunities

Become a Celebrated and Recognized Benefactor!

Join us as a benefactor of the Soaring Eagle Awards Celebration and position your brand in front of a high-impact audience of federal A/E/C leaders, decision-makers, and rising professionals.

Your contribution will amplify this celebration and showcase your commitment to advancing leadership across the federal A/E/C community. By aligning with this prestigious event, you’ll gain visibility among top decision-makers, industry leaders, and emerging professionals—while reinforcing your support for excellence, innovation, and service.

For more information, visit us here, or contact Kathy Off.

About the SAME Foundation

Established in 2016, the SAME Foundation supports programs that help introduce youth to STEM, support them on their journey to STEM careers, and develop emerging leaders within the A/E/C profession. Signature efforts include the SAME Leader Development Program, Camps Mentoring Program, and STEM Pathways Program. The SAME Foundation also provides a secure and beneficial repository for charitable and other bequeaths from members of the Society and the public.

The SAME Foundation is registered as a 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization. Contributions to the SAME Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law—EIN: 81-1960637.

The SAME Foundation has received a Platinum Seal of Transparency by Candid (GuideStar) and a four-star rating with Charity Navigator.

Explore the Foundation’s inspiring programs and see the impact your support makes in our 2024 Foundation Donor Impact Report.

A Special Thanks to Our Benefactors