The University of Memphis Eminent Faculty Award, the highest distinction given to a faculty member by the University, is awarded annually to one faculty member who has made sustained contributions to scholarly/creative activity, teaching, and service, bringing honor and recognition to the University.

Although excellence in the three areas is stressed, faculty who have made outstanding and sustained contributions in scholarly/ creative activity and in either teaching or services will be strongly considered. The award is given by The University of Memphis Board of Visitors and includes a $20,000 cash prize and a commemorative crystal.

A University committee composed of seven faculty members screens nominations and identifies three finalists.

The recipient is then chosen from among these finalists by a Selection Committee of three members of the Board of Visitors. The award is presented to the recipient at the Spring Faculty Convocation. All faculty continuously employed by The University of Memphis since 1990 or earlier are eligible.

Supporting materials must include

• a detailed letter of nomination describing the nominee's accomplishments in scholarly/creative activity, teaching, and service
• the nominee's curriculum vitae
• a list of courses taught in the last five years (by course name and number), with enrollment for each course
• supporting evidence for accomplishments
• no more than four copies of scholarly works, documentation of creative activity, indication of past awards in teaching or research, representative copies of course syllabi, evidence of outstanding supervision of student research, and comprehensive student ratings of teaching

However, all supporting evidence must fit into a one-inch, three-ring binder. Letters of recommendation should be obtained and submitted by the person making the nomination, and at least two letters should be from sources outside The University of Memphis.

Nominators should inform nominees that they are being nominated, and may solicit their assistance in preparing the nominations materials. However, it is the nominator's responsibility to submit a complete nomination with all necessary materials. The University Committee will review all nominations, but is not responsible for ensuring that the nomination package and materials are complete.

Further information can be obtained from the Office of the Dean.

Former recipients of the Eminent Faculty Award include: