Awards

Recognizing accomplishment and service

From pushing the boundaries of art to exploring outer space to finding innovative ways to advance society, UW alumni and friends have reached great heights in almost every imaginable endeavor. Each year, to celebrate the long legacy of alumni achievement and impact, the UWAA grants four awards: the Alumnus Summa Laude Dignatus Award, the Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Our newest award, the Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award, honors UW teachers who have had a profound impact on the lives of their students.

Alumnus Summa Laude Dignatus

The Alumnus Summa Laude Dignatus Award (ASLD), presented annually by the UW and the UWAA, is the highest honor the University bestows on a UW graduate. Past recipients include world-famous writers and scientists as well as leaders in industry, commerce and philanthropy. Nominations are open to the public. Learn more

Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award

Established in 2012, the Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award (DAVA) is given to a living UW alum who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces or Uniformed Services and who has made a positive impact on the local, national or international community, the University of Washington or the veteran community. Learn more

Distinguished Service Award

Presented to UWAA members and volunteers who have had a significant impact on the UWAA, the Distinguished Service Award (DSA) recognizes outstanding service or devotion to the Alumni Association, the University of Washington and the alumni community. Learn more

Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award

Created in 2017, the Distinguished Teaching Legacy Award (DTLA) recognizes the legacy of UW teachers who had a significant impact on their students long after they left their classroom. Learn More

Golden Graduate Distinguished Alumnus Award

In 2016, the UW Alumni Association hosted the first Golden Graduates Brunch, honoring Huskies who graduated 50 or more years ago. That same year, they also created the Golden Graduate Distinguished Alumnus Award (GGDAA), given to an alumnus who has demonstrated sustained, long-term and meaningful engagement with the UW.
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