Excellence Awards

In 2011, the Graduate School developed the Excellence Award for Directors of Graduate Studies, the Excellence Award for Graduate Coordinators as a way both to recognize the good work of the faculty and staff who lead and manage graduate programs, and to provide a venue for identifying and disseminating best practices that enhance the overall quality of graduate education at the University of Oregon. In 2012, we added a third award, onethat recognizes the Excellence Award for Outstanding Mentorship of Graduate Students to honor faculty and staff who provide the strong mentorship that is essential to strong graduate programs.

The deadline for nominations for the 2013 awards has been extended to Friday April 12. Learn about the 2013 nomination process here.

About the Excellence Award for Directors of Graduate Studies

The quality and continuity of the graduate program, as well as the experience of the graduate students in the program, depend in part on the talents and commitment of the director of graduate studies or graduate program director, the Excellence Award is designed to recognize those faculty members in this position who exceed expectations by making innovative or unique contributions that positively impact the quality of the graduate program and/or student experience. The award recipient will receive a $500 research award in his/her name to be granted to a graduate student in her/his department, a plaque commemorating the award, and recognition at the spring Director of Graduate Studies meeting.

About the Excellence Award for Graduate Coordinators

The graduate coordinator or graduate secretary is central to the day-to-day operation of the graduate program and to the level of support provided to students in the program. With this award, the Graduate School seeks to recognize those staff members whose ability to organize, prioritize, and communicate exceeds expectations. The award recipient will receive a $250 gift card, a plaque commemorating the award, and recognition at the spring Director of Graduate Studies meeting.

About the Excellence Award for Graduate Mentors

This award recognizes the unique contributions, innovative ideas, and/or other accomplishments if an individual who has exhibited outstanding mentorship of graduate students. The award recipient will receive a $500 research award in his/her name to be granted to a graduate student in her/his department,, a plaque commemorating the award, and recognition at the spring Director of Graduate Studies meeting.