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Nominations are open for the university’s 2026 Award of Distinction
Image of the awards, which are engraved crystal

— Photo by Kay Hinton, Emory Photo/Video

The nomination period for Emory University’s 2026 Award of Distinction is open through Wednesday, Feb. 11. Applications can be downloaded on the Award of Distinction website.

Each year, the Award of Distinction — the highest honor bestowed upon Emory staff — recognizes approximately 10-15 employees who have made exceptional contributions to the Emory community. Honorees are celebrated at a special event and receive a monetary award in recognition of their achievements.


Who can be nominated?

All current, regular full-time and part-time university staff members, as well as postdoctoral fellows who have been employed at Emory for at least one year, are eligible for nomination. Any university faculty or staff member may submit nominations; however, employees may not nominate themselves.

Before submitting a nomination, nominators should contact the HR representative or HR leader within the nominee’s division to confirm their eligibility and ensure their departmental leadership supports the nomination. Each nomination must be endorsed by the nominee’s department head and the dean or vice president of their division.


Nomination requirements and tips for a strong nomination

Each Award of Distinction nomination must include:

  • A completed nomination form (maximum of 500 words)
  • At least one letter of support (up to three may be included)
  • Endorsements from the nominee’s department leadership and division head 

In addition to the required documents, following these steps can help strengthen a nomination:

  • Follow internal processes: Many departments have specific procedures for submitting nominations. Check with your HR representative before starting.
  • Make a compelling case: Provide detailed examples; brief statements are not competitive.
  • Gather support letters: These demonstrate broad endorsement of your nominee.
  • Plan ahead: Allow time to collect signatures and prepare a complete, competitive packet.

All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, Feb. 11. Late submissions will not be considered.


Criteria for selection

Nominations should highlight consistent excellence in job performance and demonstrate distinction in one or more of the following areas:

  • Commitment to the public good through the use of talents and abilities for personal and/or global goals
  • Exemplary service on a university committee, task force or commission
  • Significant contributions to innovations that improve satisfaction for students, employees, visitors or alumni
  • Creative initiatives resulting in successful new programs or services
  • Innovations that increase efficiency or reduce costs
  • Establishment of programs or procedures that enhance safety and security
  • Exceptional contributions that advance teaching or research quality
  • Long-term service and dedication that create a legacy of achievement

For more information about the Award of Distinction and to access nomination forms, visit the website.


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