Established in 2016, this award is presented annually by the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees during commencement weekend and recognizes a member of the APUS community (student, alumnus, faculty, administrator, or university partner) in recognition of outstanding leadership, for their significant impact on their community, industry, or the world around us.
- A student, alumnus, faculty, staff member, board member, stakeholder, or ally of the university
- Leader has made a significant impact on their community, industry, or the world
- Leader has inspired and motivated others to pursue noble and notable pursuits
- Serves as a change agent for the greater good
- Reason for nomination/impact on the University community
- Leads in a manner that reflects the university's core values of integrity, diversity, and accountability
Nominations may be made by faculty, staff, students, alumni, and those familiar with the nominee’s work.
- The University Awards Committee reviews submissions
- Top candidates are submitted to the Office of the Provost for final review and approval
- The award may, but will not necessarily, be awarded annually
- Award recipients will be honored during Commencement weekend, and should we have an in-person celebration, one-night accommodations and individual travel expenses to attend Commencement will be paid for by the University
- Award recipients receive a crystal trophy
- Award recipients are not required to attend Commencement to accept the award
- 2016: Mr. Wallace E. Boston, Ed.D
- 2019: Mr. James Barney
- 2020: Mr. William Porter II
- 2021: Dr. Kristin Drexler
- 2022: Dr. Awilda Hernandez
- 2023: Ms. Tracey Lanham
- 2024: Dr. Jarrod Sadulski
Nominations for the 2025 awards cycle are now open until January 24, 2025. For additional information or questions, contact the University Awards Committee.