Awards
Virginia Tech Influential Black Alumni Awards Ceremony
The biennial awards highlight the achievements of outstanding Black or African-American alumni and community members, featuring the award categories listed below.
This ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m. on April 17, 2020, and is a signature event of Black Alumni Reunion weekend. Nominations may be submitted here.
Award categories
- Ut Prosim: Recognition of an alumnus who embodies the spirit of Ut Prosim, as demonstrated by their commitment to serving the university or their community.
- Philanthropy: Recognition of an alumna/alumnus for their generous and meaningful financial support of Virginia Tech.
- Outstanding Recent Alumna/Alumnus: – Alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years and have demonstrated substantial career accomplishments are eligible for this award. Consideration is given to those who have had significant impact in their profession or community.
- Athlete of the Year: Honors a former athlete who has contributed greatly to their profession, community, or Virginia Tech.
- Entrepreneur of the Year: Recognizes an entrepreneur who has grown a thriving business. Extra consideration is given to pioneers or those who have made significant changes in their industry.
- Educator of the Year: Highlights an alumnus who has contributed significantly to the field of education. Nominees may teach at any level.
- Icon Award: Recognizes alumni, faculty, or staff who have made meaningful and lasting contributions to the Virginia Tech black community through advocacy, support, mentoring, or other efforts. Their impact is recognized via documented accounts in the University archives, articles, videos, or personal affirmations from multiple individuals whose lives the nominee has touched.
- Social Justice Award: Celebrates an alumnus who seeks to increase fairness and equity for those systematically disenfranchised and least served politically, economically, or socially. They demonstrate compassion, courage, leadership, and commitment to social justice in our communities and beyond. Their work has direct impact on civil rights, education, public health, environmental justice, and other areas.
