Rising Leaders Recognition Award

Mission

To honor outstanding undergraduate student leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to student engagement and campus life. This recognition celebrates students who have made meaningful contributions to their registered student organizations and the broader University of Memphis community through their leadership excellence.

Vision

To recognize and celebrate undergraduate students who exemplify outstanding leadership within registered student organizations, fostering a culture of appreciation for student engagement, and acknowledging those who enhance campus life through their dedicated service and leadership contributions.

Award Criteria

To be eligible for this one-time $1,000 recognition award, students must:

Leadership Excellence

• Hold a formal leadership position within at least one registered student organization.

• Demonstrate active engagement and meaningful contributions to their organization(s)

• Show evidence of positive impact on student engagement and campus life

Academic Achievement

• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

• Be in good academic standing with the University

Recognition Outcomes

Recipients of the Rising Leaders Recognition Award will be acknowledged for demonstrating:

Individual Leadership Excellence

• Strong understanding of personal leadership strengths and practical application of leadership skills within their organization

• Ability to navigate challenges and develop solutions that benefit their student organization and campus community

• Demonstrated emotional intelligence in building positive relationships with peers and stakeholders

Organizational Impact

• Effective collaboration with team members, showing active participation and shared responsibility within their student organization

• Constructive approach to resolving conflicts while maintaining positive group dynamics

• Evidence of enhancing their organization's effectiveness and campus presence

Campus Community Engagement

• Meaningful engagement with various campus populations and stakeholders through their leadership roles

• Demonstration of responsibility and commitment to enhancing student life at the University of Memphis

• Recognition and appreciation for different perspectives within the campus community

Professional Development

• Evidence of applying leadership skills gained through organizational involvement to enhance their undergraduate experience.

• Commitment to continuous growth and development as a student leader

• Demonstration of skills that contribute to career readiness and future success

Want to learn more? Please check out our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact Rebekah Fahey at rfahey@memphis.edu or 901-678-2357.