Alumni Awards

Eastern Michigan University alumni make amazing things happen. Their accomplishments benefit both society and campus. Their careers showcase innovative talent, dedication, passion, and desire to affect change.

Award Categories

  • Graduate of the Last Decade Alumni Award Expand dropdown
    The Graduate of the Last Decade Alumni Award is presented to alumni whose achievements have been signified by personal honors bestowed upon them by their peers and who have demonstrated the worth of their education through their post-college achievements. Generally, recipients have been graduates of EMU for less than 10 years and, to a lesser extent, younger than 40 years of age.
  • Alumni Achievement Award Expand dropdown
    Alumni Achievement Award is given to alumni who have achieved distinction in their chosen field, clearly demonstrated the value of their college education, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. Generally, recipients have been graduates of EMU for 10-25 years. 
  • Distinguished Alumni Award Expand dropdown
    Distinguished Alumni Award is given to alumni who have achieved extraordinary distinction in their chosen field, demonstrated unusual service to others, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. Generally, recipients have been graduates of EMU for more than 25 years. 
  • Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award Expand dropdown
    Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to Eastern Michigan University or the Alumni Association of EMU. Recipients need not be graduates of Eastern Michigan University.

Criteria & Eligibility

  • Criteria Expand dropdown
    • Individuals nominated must be an EMU degree holder and fit the award description; the Porter Award category is exempt. 
    • To be considered a complete nomination form must be submitted.
    • Nominations must have a one page narrative, completed by the nominator. The narrative should explain why the nominee deserves to be considered for said award, should clearly outline the contributions the nominee has made in their chosen field, and how their efforts have been impactful.
    • A minimum of two letters of recommendation must be submitted to support the nomination. 
    • Other supporting documents such as a resume, a biography, articles, and photos are accepted and highly recommended.
  • Eligibility Expand dropdown

    • Faculty and staff of Eastern Michigan University are not eligible for any alumni award until one year after their employment ends. Adjunct faculty are exempt from this restriction.

    • Recipients of the Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Alumni Award (formerly Young Alumni Award) are eligible to receive another alumni award 10 years after receiving the GOLD Award. All other alumni award recipients are eligible to receive one additional award without restriction.
    • Members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors are eligible for an alumni award one year after their board term ends.
    • The selection committee may reclassify a nominee into a different alumni award category if it better aligns with their qualifications and achievements.
    • All nominations remain active for three consecutive years for consideration.

 Nominations