Alumni Awards
Each year, we proudly honor the achievements and contributions of our extraordinary alumni, celebrating the outstanding efforts of those who exemplify the spirit of U-M through dedication, innovation, and service.
Our awards spotlight the clubs and affiliates, volunteers, and leaders making a significant impact both locally and globally:
Established and awarded by Alumni Association President and CEO Ayanna McConnell, the Michigan Alumni Impact Award celebrates some of our most accomplished U-M alums — those who embody the Leaders and Best by creating lasting impact through professional excellence and civic engagement.
Recipients are nominated and selected by their fellow alumni and will be presented with a display-worthy award at the Alumni Territory Homecoming Tailgate.
Nominations for this award are open through June 10, 2026.
Alumni Clubs of the Year
Our alumni clubs play a pivotal role in fostering Wolverine pride across the globe. Through our annual awards, we recognize clubs that demonstrate:
- Excellence in programming: Organizing engaging events and initiatives that reflect the diverse interests and passions of Michigan alumni.
- Scholarship and fundraising: Making a significant impact by raising funds to support future generations of University of Michigan students.
- Member participation: Cultivating vibrant and active communities and encouraging alumni to connect, collaborate, and contribute.
By honoring these exemplary clubs, we aim to inspire others to elevate their efforts and continue building a strong, united Wolverine family.
Outstanding Community Awards
- Tier 1: Seattle
- Tier 2: Fairfield County
- Tier 3 or at-large: Little Traverse Bay
- At-large: San Diego
- At-large: Ann Arbor
Programming Awards
- Career Networking: Los Angeles
- Community Service: Detroit
- Healthy Living and Recreational Athletics: New York City
- Lifelong Learning: Northville
- Student/Young Alumni Engagement: U-M Black Alumni
Leadership Awards
Alumni Volunteers of the Year
The Volunteers of the Year awards spotlight remarkable individuals whose community service extends beyond our campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint. These dedicated alumni are making a difference in their local communities and are evaluated based on:
- Scope of their efforts: Recognizing creative, unique initiatives that advance community development and student recruitment.
- Impact of their work: Celebrating measurable, positive outcomes that change lives and inspire others to take action.
By celebrating these volunteers, we hope to motivate others across our entire alumni network to embrace the Michigan ethos of service, leadership, and giving back.
- Alyssa Burns (Sarasota | Manatee)
- Andrea Hyslop (Ann Arbor)
- Andrew Richards (Central Ohio)
- April Roberts (Chicago)
- Lucy Freeman (Austin)
- Matt Nolan (Charlotte)
- Patty Donohue (Northville)
- Rachel Firsht (Denver)
- Ram Ramanujam (U-M Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Alumni)
- Therese Timmons (Houston)
Campus Awards
In addition to the Alumni Association’s awards, there are numerous recognition programs across the University of Michigan’s campuses, schools, colleges, and units. These awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of Wolverines who exemplify leadership and dedication and go above and beyond in their efforts.
Expand the sections and click the links below to learn more.
For questions about the Alumni Association’s awards, please contact us at [email protected].