51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Alumni Association Awards
To celebrate our 100th year, we are handing out more awards in 2027!
To mark a century of extraordinary alumni, the 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Alumni Association is supersizing our awards program by handing out seven extra honors at the Nanook Rendezvous reunion—including six Distinguished Alumnus awards and an additional William R. Cashen Service award.
Help us recognize the amazing alumni and friends making an impact. Read more about each of the award categories below and submit a nomination form below.
Deadline: November 27, 2026
Award Overview
The Distinguished Alumnus Award is the association's most prestigious award. It was first awarded in 1962 and continues to annually recognize living graduates of 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø. Alumni are selected for the award based on meritorious service on behalf of 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø, distinguished accomplishments in business and professional life, or distinguished human service in community affairs.
Selection Criteria
Selection is based on a candidate's meritorious service on behalf of 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø, distinguished accomplishments in business and professional life, or distinguished human service in community affairs.
Nomination Requirements
All alumni are encouraged to nominate any 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø alumni for this award. Every nomination requires detailed information on the candidate's life achievements along with three letters of support, all of which must come from 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø alumni or former students.
William R. "Bill" Cashen '37 was an alumni director, professor and university marshal, as well as a public servant, historian, family man, proud alumnus and friend to many alumni. Cashen set the example for service to the university and its alumni association. This award is designed to recognize and perpetuate his example and inspire all those associated with the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Selection Criteria
Nominees are evaluated on meritorious service demonstrated across more than one level of alumni activity. Examples of eligible involvement include serving as a chapter officer or on the board of directors, assisting with projects, establishing scholarships, or serving on 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø advisory councils and selection committees.
Nomination Requirements
Alumni and non-alumni qualify for the award. Only employees of the 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Alumni Association are excluded.
There’s a single moment at Commencement that changes everything … the symbolic flip of the tassel. It marks the transition from college student to lifelong Nanook alum. The 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Alumni Association is looking for one standout alum to lead this charge and officially welcome our newest members into our network.
Do you know a graduate who embodies the pride of Nanook Nation? Whether it’s a peer or yourself, we’re looking for a representative to take the stage and lead the tradition.
