Student Leadership Awards

Recognizes a student organization established during the current calendar year that has quickly established a presence and made a positive impact.

Nomination Considerations:

• Early engagement and programming
• Measurable impact on campus life or community
• Demonstrated potential for continued contributions

Recognizes student organizations that foster a welcoming, respectful, and supportive campus through programs, initiatives, or community engagement.

Nomination Considerations:

• Evidence that the organization contributes to a positive and safe campus environment
• Leadership in engagement, understanding, and collaboration
• Sustained commitment to improving the campus community

Recognizes a student organization committed to creating positive change on their campus or local community.

Nomination Considerations:

• Distinctive organizational purpose and commitment
• Evidence of measurable positive impact
• Engagement that addresses meaningful or systemic issues

Recognizes a program or series coordinated by a student organization that enhances student life and reaches a broad campus audience.

Nomination Considerations:

• Evidence of campus or community impact through participation or outcomes
• Visibility and accessibility of the program to students
• Contribution to overall student life and campus engagement

Recognizes fraternity or sorority chapters that exemplify values, develop members, and positively impact campus and surrounding communities.

Nomination Considerations:

• Alignment of chapter activities with organizational values and mission
• Member development and leadership growth
• Positive contributions to campus and local community

Honors a student organization that provides high-quality programming, strong membership engagement, and meaningful impact on the campus community.

Nomination Considerations:

• Scope, quality, and impact of programming and activities
• Active, engaged membership with demonstrated benefits for members
• Contributions to the broader campus community or region

This prestigious award honors students who demonstrate exceptional leadership across multiple campus organizations and initiatives. Recipients contribute to collaborative projects and make a positive impact both on campus and in the broader Metro Detroit community. Eligible nominees are students graduating in the upcoming semester (Winter 2026 or Fall 2026).

Nomination Considerations:

• Leadership roles in student organizations, initiatives, committees, or student employment
• Collaboration with at least two different campus entities resulting in positive outcomes
• Engagement with the local community through service, advocacy, or volunteerism

Recognizes an advisor who provides guidance, mentorship, and support to a student organization, helping students and the organization succeed.

Nomination Considerations:

• Demonstrated support for individual student growth and success
• Strengthening the organization’s operations and programming
• Responsiveness to student and organizational needs

Recognizes a student who has shown a deep commitment to creating positive change in their campus or local community through service, advocacy, or engagement.

Nomination Considerations:

• Distinctive qualities and commitment that set the nominee apart from peers
• Evidence of measurable positive impact in the community
• Work that addresses meaningful issues or root causes

Recognizes a student who fosters a welcoming, respectful, and supportive campus through programming, service, or peer interactions.

Nomination Considerations:

• Evidence that the student’s work contributes to a more welcoming and supportive campus environment
• Leadership or involvement in programs that promote fairness and understanding
• Sustained commitment to fostering positive interactions among students, faculty, and staff

Recognizes a faculty or staff members who go above and beyond to advocate for students, motivate them, and provide necessary support for their success.

Nomination Considerations:

• Actions that advocate for student success
• Role modeling and motivation for students to reach their potential
• Effective balance of challenge and support to help students thrive

Recognizes a student who positively influences programs or organizations from behind the scenes with reliability, initiative, and dedication.

Nomination Considerations:

• Quiet yet meaningful contributions to programs or organizations
• Dependability and willingness to assist in any capacity
• Demonstrated initiative, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence

Recognizes a first-year student who demonstrates commitment to academic success, aligns with the university’s mission, and makes an early positive impact on campus.

Nomination Considerations:

• Demonstrated commitment to academic success
• Embodiment of the university's mission and values as a role model
• Early contributions to campus life or student engagement

Recognizes a fraternity or sorority member who exemplifies chapter values and positively impacts campus and the local community.

Nomination Considerations:

• Commitment to chapter values and principles
• Contributions to campus or community programs
• Positive influence on peers and chapter development

Recognizes a student who has returned to their academic journey after a break, demonstrates persistence, academic achievement, and balance of multiple responsibilities.

Nomination Considerations:

• Overcoming challenges while pursuing undergraduate education
• Demonstrated academic success and commitment to learning
• Balancing personal, professional, and/or family responsibilities