News release
For the sixth year in a row, the College of the Canyons Contracts, Procurement, and Risk Management department has been honored with the 2026 Annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute Inc.
The national recognition places COC among 251 organizations nationwide to receive the award, which honors public agencies whose procurement practices reflect the highest standards of excellence in the profession, according to a news release from the college.
“Winning this award once is a strong accomplishment, but winning it six years in a row reflects a sustained, consistent commitment across the entire department to doing this work well, year after year,” CPRM Executive Director April Marin said in the release. “It speaks to the diligence of our team, the strength of our processes, and the trust the board and the district have placed in us. This recognition belongs to every member of the CPRM team, and I want to thank them for the work that made it possible.”
The AEP Award recognizes excellence in procurement by organizations that obtain high scores on standardized criteria that measure innovation, professionalism, e-procurement, productivity and leadership.
COC’s CPRM department manages all purchasing, ensuring compliance with state codes and board policies while responsibly stewarding taxpayer dollars, the release said.
Last fiscal year, the seven-person team processed approximately $46 million in purchase orders.
“The 2026 AEP Award reflects the extraordinary commitment of procurement professionals who are driving performance, accountability, and strategic value for their agencies,” Carrie Mathes, AEP officer for NPI, said in the release. “This year’s record participation and new milestones are a testament to the growing recognition of procurement as a critical function in public service.”
Established in 1995, the AEP Award is open to all public and nonprofit organizations. The program’s comprehensive criteria promote continuous improvement and elevate procurement as a vital contributor to good governance.
NPI promotes the achievement of excellence in public and nonprofit procurement through education, certification, professional development, and networking of its membership.
For more information about the college’s CPRM department, go to www.canyons.edu/administration/contracts.
