The Alumni Association solicits nominations for the awards from all members of the university community. A committee of the Alumni Association Board of Directors reviews the materials submitted on each candidate and selects those candidates who are deemed most deserving of recognition and whose achievements most closely fit the category for which they have been nominated. The committee often invites consulting members to assist in its deliberations. Individuals chosen to receive awards are honored each year at the Alumni Awards Evening.
- Exemplary Alumni Service Award
- This award recognizes one alumna/alumnus or friend of UWM for exceptional volunteer leadership in service to UWM or the Alumni Association.
- Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award
- This award honors up to two mid-career UWM graduates who have had a significant impact on their professions. Their accomplishments set the pace for future generations of leaders.
- Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award
- This award recognizes up to five undergraduate alumni at the start of their careers (within 10 years of graduating with a bachelor’s degree). Recipients are chosen based on their professional accomplishments or service to the university and/or community.
- Honorary Alumni Award
- Honorary Alumni status is presented to a person who is not a graduate of UWM but who has earned this recognition and honor through deep loyalty, service and support of the university and the Alumni Association.
- Impact Award
- This award honors up to two alumni who have generously contributed their time and talents for the enrichment of others and the betterment of their communities. This service could be performed through various civic, charitable, philanthropic and social welfare organizations.
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- This award is reserved for an exceptional alumna/alumnus who has had extraordinary success in their professional achievement; community involvement; advancement of UWM’s mission; giving back of time, talent and treasure; and encouraging and inspiring future leaders.
- University Partner Award
- This award is reserved for one exceptional corporation, nonprofit organization or foundation that has had a major impact on the lives of UWM’s alumni and students through the employment of a significant number of Panther alumni, experiential learning opportunities for students, or transformative philanthropic support of the university.
Nominating Criteria for Recipients:
- Must be present to receive the award.
- May not be a current employee of UW-Milwaukee.
- May not be a candidate for public office or current elected official.
- May not be a sitting UWM Alumni Association Board member.
- Must not be involved in any current legal investigation or proceeding.
- Must be living at the time the nomination is submitted.