The Emporia State University Distinguished Alumni award is the highest honor that can be granted to an alumnus of Emporia State University by ESU Alumni Association. Awarded each fall during Homecoming, it recognizes the outstanding professional accomplishments of ESU's finest graduates. Since the inception of the award program in 1960, more than 200 alumni have received the award.

Candidates are nominated for the Distinguished Alumni award by alumni and ESU faculty. As much information as possible is gathered on each candidate. The information is evaluated and an initial selection is made by a committee representing alumni and faculty. The Alumni Association Board of Directors approves or makes final selection of those who will receive the award. A maximum of five alumni can receive the award in a given year.

Past Distinguished Alumni have included teachers, research scholars, humanitarians, administrators, public servants, doctors, lawyers, and leaders in business, industry, and the military. All are respected in their professions and community. Most important, they are Emporia State University graduates who have given ESU a rich heritage.

Nomination Form

Go here to fill out the nomination form online. Please note: for consideration during the upcoming calendar year, nominations are due by October 31. Nominations received after this date will be considered for the following year.

Current Recipients