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Illinois State University Alumni Association
 
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Awards

Each year the Illinois State University’s Alumni Association proudly recognizes individuals who personify the University’s tradition as an environment for excellence.  Through outstanding achievements and contributions, these individuals bring honor to Illinois State and the Alumni Association.  Established in 1971 with one award, the program has grown to four award categories to better recognize the accomplishments of alumni at different stages of their careers. 

What are the awards?
The Alumni Association has four awards that are presented annually at the Founders Day Convocation.  The awards include the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, Alumni Achievement Award, E. Burton Mercier Service Award and Distinguished Alumnus Award.  Recipients are also honored by the association at a recognition dinner where they the have the opportunity to speak and formally accept the award.  Each award may have up to three recipients annually, except the Distinguished Alumni Award which is only awarded to one individual, who qualifies by having previously won either a Young, Service, aor Achievement award.

How do I nominate someone for an award?

Do you know an Illinois State alumnus who fits any of these descriptions? 

  • Has significant career achievements
  • Has had national or international impact
  • Has contributed to their field beyond the expectations and responsibilities of the positions they have held
  • Has had a direct, positive impact on society and their community

If you know someone who fits these descriptions, nominate them for an Illinois State University Alumni Association Award.  There are four award categories and you choose where the individual fits best.  The nomination process is simple and the first step in identifying outstanding alumni who are making a difference! 

To initiate the nomination process, please submit an online nomination form or a A PDF version of the nomination form is also available and can be mailed to Alumni Relations, Campus Box 3100, Normal, IL 61790-3100 or fax it to the office at (309) 438-8057.

Once established, award files remain active and may be added to at any time. To be considered for spring 2009, nominations must be received by May 30, 2008.

Current active members of a University board are NOT eligible to receive an Alumni Award.  They may be nominated once their service to the board expires.

What is the timeline for nominations?

  • End of May - Nominations are due to the Alumni Relations Office each year
  • Summer - Committees begin their review and selection process
  • Fall - Committees make final selections of award recipients
  • Winter - Recipients are notified and travel arrangements are finalized

How are recipients selected?
The selection committee for each award is a subcommittee of the alumni board’s standing awards committee and chaired by a member of the alumni board.  Committee membership includes one additional alumni board member and various other volunteers and members of the campus community.  After the committees make their selections, award recipients must be approved by the University president.