Distinguished Legacy Alumni Award
This award honors those whose legacies continue to inspire the next generation of CMU students and alumni, ensuring their contributions are acknowledged and preserved within the CMU community while embracing the Maverick Spirit that defines Colorado Mesa University.
Overview
The Colorado Mesa University Distinguished Legacy Alumni Award honors exceptional alumni whose contributions have left a lasting impact on their profession, community, and alma mater. This award recognizes previous recipients of the CMU Distinguished Alumni Award whose legacy continues to inspire future generations. The award may be given to a living or posthumous honoree.
Three alumni will be recognized annually under the following categories:
- Professional Excellence: Recognizing an alumnus who has made outstanding contributions to their industry or profession, setting a standard for excellence.
- Community Impact & Service: Honoring an alumnus who has demonstrated a commitment to service and making a meaningful difference in their community in true Maverick spirit.
- Posthumous Recognition: Acknowledging an alumnus whose legacy has had a lasting impact, ensuring their contributions are remembered and celebrated.
Eligibility
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a graduate of Colorado Mesa University (or its predecessor institutions).
- Must be a previous CMU Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. View Distinguished Alumni Award winners →
- Demonstrated exceptional career achievement, community leadership, or societal impact.
- Made significant contributions to their field, industry, or community.
- Represent the values, Maverick Spirit, and legacy of CMU through their work, leadership, and service.
- May be living or recognized posthumously.
Award Criteria
Each nominee will be evaluated based on:
- Career Achievement – Success in their professional field, industry leadership, and innovation.
- Community & Civic Engagement – Contributions to society, volunteerism, philanthropy, and advocacy.
- Institutional Impact – Support for CMU initiatives, mentorship, or contributions to the university community.
- Legacy & Maverick Spirit – Long-term impact, historical significance, embodiment of CMU’s core values, and ongoing inspiration to future generations.
Nominations
Nominations must include a detailed narrative no more than 2000 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 may be submitted by faculty, alumni, staff, community members, or self-nomination.
Nominations are open October 20, 2025 through January 30, 2026.
