The University of Alabama in Huntsville has reimagined the awards that honor the outstanding achievements of alumni, partners and supporters who advance the university and its impact locally and beyond.
The awards will be presented at the Sapphire Excellence Awards gala that will be held on UAH’s campus on Thursday, April 2. Sponsorship, and ticket, and award information are below.
2026 Honorees
Presidential Community Award
UAH’s highest honor presented by the University President recognizing an individual or organization whose service has enhanced UAH and strengthened Huntsville, Madison County or the state of Alabama.
Huntsville Hospital Health System
Charger Champion Award
Honors individuals or families who exemplify exceptional dedication to the university.
Dr. Kathy Chan
Dr. Francisco Collazo
Research Impact Award
Celebrates partners whose work expands and strengthens UAH’s research enterprise.
NASA Surya Heliophysics Foundation Model Team
Distinguished Alumni Fellows
Recognizes outstanding UAH graduates who have made a lasting impact in their professions, in society, or at the university through exceptional achievement, philanthropic leadership, and meaningful service.
Shane Davis
City of Huntsville Director of Urban and Economic Development
Amir Deylami
Associate Center Director at NASA Ames Research Center
Brad Hill
Vice Chairman, Board of Directors at Valkyrie Enterprises and Founder of the Hill Family Foundation
Robin Higgs
Senior Vice President of Engineering and Manufacturing Technology at 3M Global Headquarters
Michelda Johnson
Chief Executive Officer, HAPPI Health
Dr. Prabodh Satyal
Senior Research Scientist and Project Manager, NASA
Gerald Smith
Retired Executive Director of the NSSTC
Former President of ATK Thiokol
Graduates of the Last Decade Honorees
Recognizes alumni who have graduated within the last ten years and who have demonstrated significant professional success, community engagement, and commitment to UAH.
Lauren Bowers
Regional Director of East Tennessee Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians
Anvi Dalal
Global Supply Manager, Apple
Matthew Gardner
Director, Huntsville Youth Chorale (9 - 12th grade)
Caroline McAnally
Physical Education teacher at Hazel Green Elementary School
Taylor Reed
Missile Defense Agency Engineer
Chief Operating Officer, Shower Up
Shannon Collins Shaver
Director of Nursing, Clearview Cancer Institute
