Every year, the University of Illinois has honored outstanding UIS graduates and friends with the University of Illinois Springfield Alumni Awards. We invite you to learn more about these awards and to nominate someone deserving today.
![Nick Jones, Micah Bartlett who is holding an award, Janet Gooch and Carly Hawkins](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/20240223_alumni_gala_0015_f.jpg?itok=v4qptzcU)
Alumni Achievement Award
The Alumni Achievement Award, established in 1957, is the highest honor bestowed upon alumni of the University of Illinois. The award is presented to those alumni who have attained outstanding success and national or international distinction in their chosen profession or life’s work, and whose accomplishments reflect admirably on or bring honor to their alma mater.
![Nick Jones, Karen Moranski who is holding an award, Janet Gooch and Carly Hawkins](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/20240223_alumni_gala_0020_f.jpg?itok=6_C659j7)
Distinguished Service Award
Established in 1972, this honor has been bestowed upon alumni, faculty, staff or friends of the University of Illinois by the University. The honor is given to those individuals who have consistently demonstrated extraordinary commitment, dedication and service to the advancement of the University of Illinois.
![Dalitso Sulamoyo holding his Alumni Humanitarian Award in the Student Union](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-02/20230224_Alumni_Gala_0017_f.jpg?itok=mrjKxAtz)
Alumni Humanitarian Award
Established in 1972, this honor has been bestowed upon alumni, faculty, staff or friends of the University of Illinois by the University. The honor is given to those individuals who have consistently demonstrated extraordinary commitment, Established in 2001, this honor is bestowed upon alumni of the University of Illinois of each respective University. The award is presented to those alumni who, through their outstanding involvement and dedication, have made a significant contribution of leadership or service which has improved or enriched the lives of others and the welfare of humanity, and whose accomplishments reflect admirably on, or bring honor to, their alma mater.
![A group of alumni holding their Alumni Loyalty Awards](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-02/20200221_alumni_gala_0094_f.jpg?itok=n-9LPh1E)
Loyalty Award for Exceptional Alumni Service
Established in 1957, this award has been bestowed upon alumni of the University of Illinois who have made significant, notable and meritorious contributions, and who have consistently demonstrated exceptional loyalty, commitment, dedication and service to the University for the advancement of their alma mater.
![Four graduates jumping in front of the UIS colonnade](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/Commencement%202017%20Colonnade%20005.jpg?itok=YFMtBMUe)
Alumni Rising Star Award
Established in 2023, this award is an honor bestowed upon alumni of the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS). The award is presented to those alumni aged 35 or younger, or who have graduated within the previous five (5) years. Recognized are those who have demonstrated emerging and unique innovation, creativity and success in their chosen career, and whose accomplishments reflect admirably upon or bring honor to their Alma Mater.
![Ashley Beaton head shot in the UIS gymnasimum](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/Ashley%20Beaton.jpg?itok=rS-hpb-s)
Student Leadership Award
The University of Illinois Springfield Alumni Board (UIS Alumni Board) has the privilege of honoring exceptional graduating students for their volunteer contributions as leaders of student societies, groups and organizations at UIS. The UIS Alumni Board sponsors this recognition program and would appreciate your assistance in identifying deserving individuals on campus. Nominees are undergraduate, graduate or doctoral students who received their degrees in summer or fall, or who are candidates for graduation in May. Nominees should have demonstrated exceptional leadership through their involvement in campus and/or student organizations. Leadership may be exemplified through an officer or chair position, or outstanding loyalty and commitment by a person whose actions inspire others. The leadership that is recognized can span an entire academic career or be more limited in scope.
Questions?
For additional information about awards and recognition, contact the Division of Advancement.