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Why Axim Should Support the Distinguished Contributors Program
Strengthen Community Engagement – Encouraging long-term contributions from developers, educators, and partners ensures sustained platform growth.
Increase Increase Platform Adoption – Recognized contributors and advocates will actively promote Open edX, driving global awareness and institutional buy-in.
Enhance Open edX’s Competitive Edge – Competitors and many loved companies have similar structured recognition programs -
Canvas Certified Educator – Instructor Advocate & Ambassador Program
Linux Foundation: Distinguished Engineers & Fellows
Apache Software Foundation: Committer & PMC Models
Sakai Fellows Program
Apereo Community Leadership Program
Google Developer Experts (GDE)
Microsoft MVP Program
Foster Partner & Contributor Retention – Providing clear incentives for continued involvement reduces the risk of disengagement and shifts to other platforms.
Align with Axim’s Leadership Role – Supporting this program cements Axim’s role in shaping Open edX’s future, ensuring a thriving, innovative ecosystem.
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Official Endorsement & Sponsorship – Axim’s recognition will give the program credibility, making it a prestigious and sought-after honor within the Open edX community.
Program Administration Support – Assistance in setting up a structured nomination, evaluation, and recognition process, including maintaining records and reviewing contributions.
Visibility & Promotion – Help in announcing, promoting, and celebrating honorees through Open edX’s official channels (Open edX conferences, website, newsletters, social media, and events).
Exclusive Incentives & Benefits – Define meaningful benefits such as complimentary access for Conferenceconferences, early access to roadmap discussions, speaking opportunities at Open edX events, or co-marketing efforts for recognized contributors and partners.
Integration with Other Open edX Initiatives – Align the program with Core Contributor pathways, Open edX Partner benefits, and overall community engagement efforts.
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The Distinguished Contributors Program is designed to be a prestigious recognition, ensuring that only those who have demonstrated sustained impact, leadership, and deep commitment to the Open edX ecosystem are awarded.
Nomination Process
Self-Nomination or Peer Nomination – Candidates may nominate themselves or be nominated by a peer within the Open edX community.
Minimum Endorsements Required – Each nomination must include at least three (3) endorsements from recognized community members (Core Contributors, Open edX Partners, or Axim representatives), one of who must be Axim representative.
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A detailed summary of their contributions aligned with the recognition track they are applying for.
A statement of how their work has advanced the Open edX ecosystem (measured through impact, adoption, or community engagement).
References from Open edX partners, clients, or community leaders validating their contributions.
Evidences…Pieces of evidence…?
Eligibility Requirements
Sustained Engagement – Minimum of 2 years of active contributions to Open edX in one of the designated recognition tracks.
Demonstrated Impact – Proven record of meaningful contributions with tangible results (e.g., code contributions, strategic initiatives, advocacy, or partnerships).
Community Involvement – Active participation in working groups, discussions, mentorship, or platform enhancements that have benefited the broader community.
Commitment to Open Source & Open edX Growth – Alignment with the core values and long-term vision of the platform.
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Goal: Recognize the 1st Cohort at Open edX Conference, Paris (July 1, 2025)
March - April 2025: Program Finalization & Buy-in
Finalize program structure, eligibility, and recognition tracks.
Secure Axim’s endorsement and set up the review committee.
Develop community engagement and marketing plan.
April 15 - May 31, 2025: Launch & Nominations
Officially launch the program via Open edX channels.
Open nominations and drive community participation.
Host Q&A sessions to guide applicants and partners.
June 1 - June 15, 2025: Review & Selection
Evaluate submissions and shortlist recipients.
Finalize recognition package and conference presentation.
July 1, 2025: Announcement at Open edX Conference
Recognize the 1st Distinguished Contributors Cohort in Paris.
Showcase contributions and publish post-event highlights.