Michigan Alumni Impact Award

The nomination period for the 2026 Michigan Alumni Impact Award ended on June 10, 2026.

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. Recipients will also be featured across the Alumni Association’s channels, including the Michigan Alum magazine.

Nomination Criteria

• Nominees must be alumni of the University of Michigan (any campus).
• Nominators must be alumni of the University of Michigan (any campus).
• No self-nominations will be accepted — all candidates must be nominated by someone else.
• Nominees must demonstrate the following:
  • Tangible contributions that demonstrate significant impact in their profession through distinguished achievement, leadership, or innovation, recognized within their profession or area of expertise
  • Demonstrated impact within their community through civic engagement, which can include mentorship, philanthropy, and volunteerism
  • A deep appreciation for the impact their alma mater has played in their personal and professional success

Award Information

• A panel of alumni peers appointed by Alumni Association President and CEO Ayanna McConnell will review nominations and select the final recipient.
• The recipient will be notified in July.
• The recipient must be available to accept the award in person at the Alumni Territory Homecoming Tailgate on Oct. 17. (Tailgate tickets and accommodations will be provided.)