ICMA's Award for Career Development is presented to a corporate member who has made a significant contribution to the development of new talent in professional local government management. The award commemorates former President L.P. (Perry) Cookingham, who is credited with creating the local government internship. In 2001, ICMA presented the award to Ronald N. Whitehead, city manager of Addison, Texas. This article discusses how, throughout his 20 years with the City of Addison, Texas, Ron Whitehead has committed himself to providing the best management and leadership he can, not only to the community, but also to the people who work there. Learn more about ICMA's Annual Awards program.