The Odus G. Rudd Memorial Award for significant contributions to gospel music in the State of Ohio is given to a person judged to have made an outstanding contribution to gospel music in Ohio. The award was established in memory of Odus G. Rudd, who died March 10, 2012. Odus G. Rudd was a charter Advisory Board Member, Trustee, and the first Chairman of the Ohio Gospel Music Association.
The recipient is chosen by the OGMA Advisory Board. The criteria for the Odus G. Rudd Memorial Award are:
Recipient is foremost committed to following Christ.
Recipient displays a servant spirit.
Recipient shows a genuine concern for others.
Recipient is devoted to promoting/sharing the gospel through gospel music but would not qualify to be a Hall of Fame candidate (gospel music performer, songwriter, broadcaster, or promoter with prominence in the history of gospel music in Ohio.)
The award consists of presentation of a plaque.