Awards and Honors Presented to Alumni, Friends, and Supporters of Truman State University
President’s Leadership Award
The most prestigious award bestowed by the University, this award honors Truman’s most ardent supporters who show an exceptional commitment to the University through gifts of volunteerism, expertise and financial resources.
Alumni of the Year
Our alumni have impressive resumes, and we like to shine a light on high-achieving individuals—especially when their life’s work represents intellectual integrity, informed ethical values, a focus on public service, and demonstrated leadership
Distinguished Service Award
When alumni and other supporters of the University champion Truman’s mission through outstanding volunteer and philanthropic service, this award is one of the ways the University recognizes their generous commitment to the Truman and its students.
Young Alumni of the Year
With the high caliber of our students, it’s no surprise that our graduates are well on their way to leading meaningful lives of influence by the time they turn 40—this award recognizes young alumni leaders who are already leaving their mark on the world.
Denise L. Smith Volunteer of the Year
The Denise L. Smith Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes sustained, outstanding volunteer service to the University and the Alumni Association, and reflects length and depth of service on the part of the recipient. Each year, one award is given to a member of the Truman Alumni Association who is a current member of the Alumni Association. The Denise L. Smith Volunteer of the Year Award is intended for and elevates the service and time given to the University by a volunteer.
Alumni Fellows Program
Sponsored by the Office of Advancement and the University’s five academic schools, this program recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves in their respective careers. The program is designed to enrich the Truman experience by exposing students to outstanding alumni who share extensive knowledge and real-world experience from their respective fields.
Echo 25
Recognition for alumni under the age of 40, recipients of The Echo 25 are selected based on the ways they live out Truman’s characteristics of graduates. Truman graduates are creative, socially responsible leaders and engaged world citizens. They have the characteristics that enable them to be active, successful participants in their worlds.
Bulldog Forever Alumni Group of the Year
The Bulldog Forever Group of the Year Award recognizes outstanding commitment to the University through the Alumni Association, and reflects length and depth of service on the part of a group of Alumni. It particularly focuses on hosting events, recruiting new Alumni involvement, organizing volunteer or philanthropic opportunities, demonstrating support for current Truman students, and communicating with other Alumni.
Bulldog Forever Initiative of the Year
This award recognizes an exemplary event, activity, or other initiative that advances the mission of the Truman State University Alumni Association. Initiatives may support alumni and the greater Truman community through a single occurrence or sustained recurrence over time, demonstrating significant impact within the past year (July 1 – June 30). Eligible events include but are not limited to those hosted by Alumni Association Chapters and Clubs, and nominations may be made by anyone.
Homecoming Parade Grand Marshals
With this lofty title and a special seat up front, the grand marshals help celebrate the tradition of Homecoming by leading the parade down Franklin Street.
Donor Recognition
Truman’s giving clubs celebrate and honor our most loyal and generous supporters who invest in Truman State University.
Distinguished Corporation/Foundation Award
With Truman’s reputation for producing graduates who are well-prepared to enter the working world, corporations, businesses, foundations, and organizations have discovered that investing in Truman means they are investing in their future. That’s why they like to partner with the University by sponsoring events and programs, providing internship opportunities, hiring Truman graduates, and contributing financial resources to ensure the future of the University. This award recognizes the importance of these mutually beneficial partnerships.
