Mary Rait Leadership Award

Recipients of the Colorado Mesa University Mary Rait Leadership Award embody Mary Rait's Maverick spirit by advancing educational opportunities, championing gender equality, and promoting institutional excellence. They foster mentorship for future generations, ensuring a lasting impact on leadership and growth.

Whether as alumni, staff, or community leaders, these persons embody Mary Rait's pioneering and Maverick spirit, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to scholarship, ethical leadership, and the empowerment of future generations. Their contributions have broken barriers, fostered inclusion, shaped future leadership, and elevated women's status in society while ensuring that Colorado Mesa University remains a beacon of excellence and opportunity for all.

1. Transformational Leadership in Education and Advocacy
   • Demonstrates a commitment to advancing education, equity, and professional development for women in higher education. 
   • Advocates for policies, programs, or initiatives that expand opportunities for women in academia, public service, business, or civic leadership. 
   • Serves as a mentor or advocate who positively influences Colorado Mesa University students, faculty, or community members. 
   • Embodies a lifelong dedication to learning, scholarship, and institutional excellence.
     
     
2. Elevating the Status of Women in Society
   • Has made significant contributions that break barriers and promote gender equity within Colorado Mesa University and beyond. 
   • Fosters an inclusive environment that supports women’s leadership in academia, industry, or public service.
   • Demonstrates a commitment to mentorship, sponsorship, or initiatives that empower women to excel in their fields.
   • Drives systemic change that benefits future generations of women leaders.
     
     
3. Community and Institutional Impact
   • Has made a lasting impact on Colorado Mesa University, whether through academic contributions, leadership, student mentorship, or community service. 
   • Leads or has led initiatives that strengthen the university’s commitment to education, diversity, and public service.
   • Serves as a bridge between the university and the broader community, fostering civic engagement, outreach, and impactful partnerships.
     
     
4. Professional Excellence, Ethics, and Integrity
   • Exhibits outstanding professional achievement and serves as a role model in their field. 
   • Demonstrates unwavering commitment to integrity, perseverance, and ethical leadership. 
   • Recognized by peers, colleagues, or students as influential and respected leader.
   • Advocates for institutional or community progress through leadership, research, or service.

The award is open to Colorado Mesa University alumni, leadership, staff and community leaders who have made enduring contributions to education, leadership and women's empowerment.

Nominees should have demonstrated a commitment to equity, mentorship and advocacy in ways that align with Mary Rait’s values and legacy.

Nominations must include a detailed narrative no more than 2,000 words describing the nominee’s impact in alignment with the award criteria. The nomination form includes 2-4 letters of support from colleagues, mentees, students or community members.

Nominations are open October 20, 2025 through January 30, 2026.