As WJM Associates marks its 30th anniversary, we are proud to announce the establishment of the William J. Morin Excellence Award — and to celebrate the extraordinary individual chosen as its inaugural recipient: Edmund Piccolino, Ph.D.
The William J. Morin Excellence Award was created to honor the enduring spirit of WJM's Founder, Bill Morin , a visionary leader, noted author, and pioneer in the executive coaching and HR consulting profession. The award recognizes a WJM Faculty member who exemplifies Bill's ideals through their work with clients, their contribution to the executive coaching profession, and their partnership within the WJM community. It honors not just what is achieved, but how: with integrity, generosity, and a genuine commitment to human potential.
Ed Piccolino is, by any measure, a fitting first recipient. A Ph.D. Industrial Psychologist, Ed began his career on the faculty at West Point researching predictors of effective leadership, and has never really stopped. Over a career spanning decades, he has coached CEOs, CFOs, and senior executives across industries from financial services to pharmaceuticals to entertainment, consistently delivering outcomes that outlast the engagement. His client results speak for themselves: leaders promoted, teams elevated, succession paths clarified.
But Ed's impact at WJM goes beyond client work. When named the first recipient of the award, he reflected on what has made WJM a genuinely special place to do this work. "I always felt safe," he said, noting that WJM's culture is built around competing for the best solution for the client - not just the business. "This is a culture of talented professionals who care deeply about each other," he observed, "and that's why WJM has survived and grown over three decades."
That sentiment - generous, perceptive, and grounded in the science of high-performing leaders - captures Ed Piccolino exactly. Congratulations, Ed. The honor is well deserved, and the legacy it represents is in excellent hands.
As part of the award, WJM will be making a donation to the Student First Fund at the University of Connecticut in Ed’s name.
