Honored Alumni

Celebrating alumni and friends whose achievements and service reflect the best of ÍøÆسԹÏ

Alumni and Community Events

Honoring Excellence Since 1947

Since 1947, the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï has recognized outstanding alumni and friends whose accomplishments, leadership and service embody the university’s tradition of excellence.

When the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Alumni Association was established in 1965, it adopted the annual awards program and continued the tradition of honoring individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their professions, communities and alma mater.

Today, the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Alumni Association continues this proud tradition by recognizing some of the university’s most distinguished alumni and friends through the Honored Alumni Awards.

2027 Honored Alumni Awards

This special evening celebrates alumni whose leadership and service continue to make a meaningful impact in their professions and communities.

Save the date: Saturday, March 27, 2027
Registration coming soon!

Celebrating the 2026 Honored Alumni

The 2026 cohort of honorees exemplify what it means to use one’s talents for the greater good. Through entrepreneurship, education, storytelling and athletics, these alumni uplift communities, inspire change and leave a lasting mark wherever they lead. Their work reflects the power of purpose-driven leadership and the enduring influence of the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï alumni community.

The 2026 Honored Alumni Honorees

2026 Honored Alumni (L-R): Kristi Helzer, Dave King, Cathy Lucas

2026 Honored Alumni

Kristi Helzer, Dave King and Cathy Lucas

2026 Honored Alumni Kristi Helzer receiving her medal

Kristi Helzer

2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Kristi Helzer, ’77

2026 Honored Alumni Dave King

Dave King

2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Dave King, '81, M.A. '82

2026 Honored Alumni Cathy Lucas speaking during Q&A

Cathy Lucas

2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Cathy Lucas, '90, APR

Nominations

The ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Alumni Association welcomes nominations for individuals whose achievements, leadership and service reflect the university’s tradition of excellence.

To nominate a candidate, submit a completed nomination form and a biography (maximum two pages) outlining the nominee’s accomplishments and connection to ÍøÆسԹÏ. Supporting materials, such as letters of recommendation, news articles and other relevant documents, are encouraged but should not exceed 10 pages total.

A selection committee composed of Alumni Board members and past honorees reviews all nominations and selects a cohort of recipients each year. Nominees not selected may be resubmitted during a future nomination cycle.

Award Qualifications

Nominees should demonstrate:

  • Distinguished personal and professional achievement in their chosen field
  • Significant contributions to the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï and/or the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Alumni Association through service, teaching, research, volunteerism or philanthropy
  • Exceptional dedication to ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï through leadership, vision, creativity, generosity or efforts that enhance the university’s impact and reputation

Current ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï employees and Alumni Board members are not eligible for consideration.