Honoring impact, leadership and legacy: UAH debuts Sapphire Excellence Awards

The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is proud to introduce the Sapphire Excellence Awards, an annual initiative honoring the outstanding achievements of alumni, partners and supporters who advance the university and its impact locally and beyond. UAH is part of The University of Alabama System.

The Sapphire Excellence Awards feature five categories: Distinguished Alumni Fellows, Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award, Presidential Community Award, Charger Champion Award, and Research Impact Award.

The Distinguished Alumni Fellows program 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.

“The Distinguished Alumni Fellows program builds on the legacy of the Alumni of Achievement program, elevating recognition for outstanding alumni who have made a lasting impact,” said Kelly Myers, director of Alumni Relations and Special Events at UAH. “The honor celebrates UAH graduates whose exceptional professional success, philanthropic leadership and meaningful service exemplify the very best of Charger Excellence.”

Similarly, the Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD) Award highlights alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years and who have already demonstrated significant professional success, community engagement and commitment to UAH.

The Distinguished Alumni Fellows and GOLD Awards are nomination-based honors. Nominations will open on Jan. 15, and the deadline to submit nominations is Feb. 20.

The remaining recipients will be selected by university leadership.  The Presidential Community Award — UAH’s highest honor presented by the University President — recognizes an individual or company whose service has enhanced UAH and strengthened Huntsville, Madison County or the state of Alabama. The Charger Champion Award honors individuals or families who exemplify exceptional dedication to the university, while the Research Impact Award celebrates partners whose work expands and strengthens UAH’s research enterprise.

“We are proud to introduce the Sapphire Excellence Awards as a new way to recognize the alumni, partners and supporters whose achievements and service move UAH forward,” said Kristina Hendrix, vice president for strategic communications at UAH. “This program reflects our commitment to celebrating excellence and honoring the individuals and organizations whose contributions strengthen the university, advance research and support the continued growth of our community and state.”

Following the selection process, the awards will be presented at the Sapphire Excellence Awards gala, held on the UAH campus on Thursday, April 3. Ticket and sponsorship information will be available soon.

For additional information, visit the Alumni website.