Awards and recognition
University of Idaho Alumni Association Awards
Each year, University of Idaho Alumni Association (UIAA) and Alumni Relations recognize outstanding alumni, friends and students through awards that celebrate achievements in volunteerism, career and academic success, and commitment to the university.
Awards and nominations
Explore award categories, past recipients and how you can nominate outstanding Vandals and students.
Nomination guidelines
See each award category for detailed information about how to nominate someone. These guidelines apply to all award categories:
- Nominations remain confidential.
- Applications for all awards must be completed and submitted by Sept. 1 each year.
- Nominee history should include significant achievements, service distinctions and any regional, national or international recognition. Media or press summaries are helpful.
- Applications require two to five letters of reference.
Applications are reviewed by the UIAA Awards Committee. Recommendations are submitted to the UIAA Board of Directors, which approves final selections. For more information, contact us at 208-885-6154 or alumni@uidaho.edu.
Alumni Hall of Fame
This award recognizes alumni who have achieved national or international distinction for their accomplishments and leadership. Consideration will be given for:
- Career accomplishments.
- Leadership within professional organizations.
- Leadership in charitable causes.
- Contributions to the cultural, social, political or economic well-being of society.
- Prior recognition and honors.
- Artistic, innovative or technical accomplishments.
Download Hall of Fame nomination form (PDF)
Brave and Bold Young Alumni Award
This award honors young alumni with outstanding career achievements or records of volunteerism. Consideration will be given to alumni 35 years old or younger prior to the Sept. 1 submission deadline. Nominations should describe how the nominee has a distinguished record of professional accomplishments, service to our alma mater or service to their community.
If not selected as an award recipient, nominees may still be considered for the Jim Lyle or Silver and Gold award.
Distinguished Idahoan Award
This award recognizes alumni with a national or international reputation who have brought distinction to the university or state of Idaho or who have rendered extraordinary service to one or both. This is not an annual award. Since its inception in 1978, it has been given to only 10 recipients.
Honorary Alumni recognition
This recognition is given to individuals who are not U of I alumni but have served University of Idaho and its alumni with great distinction and dedication. Honorees have demonstrated outstanding leadership and service and are critical to the success of our alma mater.
Jim Lyle Award
This award honors a living individual or couple who have shown long-term dedication and volunteer service to the university or UIAA.
Named for Jim Lyle, who served as alumni director from 1946-1969, this award is not open to individuals currently holding or running for an elected political office.
Consideration is given for:
- Long-term dedication to service to University of Idaho, including colleges, departments, alumni groups, student organizations or campus service groups.
- Volunteer service to the UIAA, including events, major projects or local chapter involvement.
Silver and Gold Award
This award recognizes living alumni who have a distinguished record of achievement and service in their field, bringing honor and recognition to the university. Nominations may not be submitted for alumni currently holding or running for a state or national political office. Consideration is given for:
- Career accomplishments.
- Leadership within professional organizations.
- Leadership in charitable causes.
- Contributions to the cultural, social, political or economic well-being of society.
- Prior recognition and honors.
- Artistic, innovative or technical accomplishments.