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Alumni

Alumni Awards

Each year the Illinois State University’s Alumni Association 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 six award categories to better recognize the accomplishments of alumni at different stages of their careers.

Alumni Awards 2025 Dinner

Friday, April 25, 2025
Registration is closed.

Explore Alumni Awards

    1. Nominations
    2. Distinguished Alumni Award
    3. Alumni Achievement Award
    4. Maitland Commitment to Education Award
    5. E. Burton Mercier Alumni Service Award
    6. Andrew Purnell Jr. Trailblazer Award
    7. Outstanding Young Alumni Award
    8. Future Alumni Leader Award

2024 Alumni Award Winners

Awards

Presented annually at the Founding Celebration, the awards include the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, Alumni Achievement Award, E. Burton Mercier Service Award, Distinguished Alumnus Award, Senator John Maitland, Jr., Commitment to Education Award, and the Andrew Purnell Jr. Trailblazer 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, Achievement, Trailblazer, or Maitland award, or be a past inductee into an Illinois State college Hall of Fame.

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.

Learn more about our nomination process

Other Award Opportunities on Campus for Alumni

Did you know there are other award opportunities on campus for alumni? Follow the links below to learn more about the awards each of our colleges are offering.

Additional Links

Alumni Engagement

Alumni Association

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