The Georgia Southern Alumni Awards Program recognizes the highest levels of achievement and service among alumni from across the entire University. Nominations are accepted through January 31, 2025. Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Alumni Awards Gala in April.
Alumni Award Categories:
Excellence in Business Awards
Presented to an Alumni Owned Business that operates in a manner consistent with the Georgia Southern values of: collaboration, academic excellence, discovery and innovation, integrity, openness and inclusion, and sustainability.
Alumni Service Award
Presented to the alumnus who, through volunteerism and/or philanthropy, has made the greatest contribution to the advancement of the University. This award recognizes individuals who give of their time, talent, or treasure in support of the University, demonstrating a deep commitment to its growth, success, and overall mission. The recipient’s contributions may include, but are not limited to, volunteering, mentoring, financial support, or leveraging their skills and expertise to benefit the University and its community.
Community Hero Award
Presented to the alumnus who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievements in service at the local, regional, national, and/or international levels. This award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond in contributing their time, talents, and resources to make a positive impact on communities, both near and far. This award honors those whose service transcends borders and inspires others to engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and social responsibility. The recipient's efforts should reflect a lasting impact on the well-being of individuals, communities, or global initiatives, furthering the spirit of giving and community-driven change.
Professional Achievement Award
Presented to the alumnus who has made the most significant and impactful achievement in their career, demonstrating excellence, leadership, and outstanding contribution to their field. This award recognizes an individual whose professional journey has been marked by exceptional accomplishments, innovation, and a commitment to advancing their industry or profession.
The recipient of this award has not only reached remarkable success in their career but has also exemplified qualities such as integrity, vision, and a dedication to continuous improvement. Their achievements may include, but are not limited to, pioneering new ideas, creating significant business or organizational impact, advancing knowledge or practices in their field, or earning recognition as a leader in their industry.
Sweetheart Award
Presented to a couple, both of whom are alumni, who have demonstrated extraordinary support for the University through their combined or individual contributions in philanthropy, service, or professional work. This award honors couples whose shared commitment to the University has had a significant and lasting impact on the institution, its students, and its community.
George & Lucy Armstrong Award
Presented to an Armstrong alumnus who best exemplifies the University’s core values, as expressed through collaboration, academic excellence, discovery and innovation, integrity, openness and inclusion, and sustainability. This prestigious award honors an individual who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to upholding and advancing these values in their professional and personal life. The George & Lucy Armstrong Award celebrates those who, through their actions and achievements, have advanced the mission of the University, creating a lasting and positive impact in their communities and the world.
Marvin Pittman Award
Presented to a Georgia Southern alumnus who best exemplifies the University’s core values, as expressed through collaboration, academic excellence, discovery and innovation, integrity, openness and inclusion, and sustainability. This prestigious award honors an individual whose professional and personal achievements reflect a deep commitment to the values that are central to the mission of Georgia Southern University. This award is named in honor of Marvin Pittman, a distinguished leader whose own life and work embody these values. The Marvin Pittman Award recognizes an alumnus who not only exemplifies the ideals of Georgia Southern University but also actively contributes to creating a lasting, positive impact in their community, their profession, and the world. Through their exceptional accomplishments, the recipient serves as a role model for current and future students and alumni, inspiring others to live by these core values and make a meaningful difference in society.
Talon Award
The highest alumni honor at Georgia Southern University, the Talon Award is presented to an alumnus who exemplifies exceptional achievement in their career, outstanding service to their alma mater, and a deep commitment to their community. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have not only excelled in their professional field but have also made significant contributions through their dedication to the University and their broader community. The Talon Award celebrates those whose leadership, integrity, and service inspire others and reflect the values of Georgia Southern University.