Awards and Recognition
The Department of Public and Nonprofit Administration (DPNA) empowers leaders who strengthen communities, advance equity, and steward public trust.
Recognition is one way we affirm those commitments.
Our Awards and Recognition program honors students and alumni whose work reflects
academic excellence, principled leadership, and meaningful impact in public and nonprofit
sectors. Through intentional recognition and strategic support, DPNA celebrates achievement
while investing in the next generation of public service professionals.
Student Awards
DPNA Distinguished Student Excellence Award
The DPNA Distinguished Student Excellence Award honors outstanding MPA and MNM graduate
students who demonstrate academic distinction, leadership within the program, and
a sustained commitment to public and nonprofit service.
This award reflects the department's belief that excellence is not only measured by
academic performance, but also by integrity, service, and the capacity to lead with
purpose.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in the MPA or MNM program
- Have completed at least 9 credit hours
- Hold a minimum 3.7 cumulative GPA
- Secure a faculty endorsement
Application Requirements and Procedures
Application materials include a 500-word personal statement, faculty endorsement,
and academic and program information.
The student award is offered annually in the spring, with recipients recognized at
the department's Graduate, Honors, and Awards Reception.
Apply Here
Alumni Awards
David Cox Distinguished Alumni Award
The David Cox Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes graduates who have demonstrated
exceptional leadership and lasting impact in public service, nonprofit leadership, or community engagement.
This award celebrates alumni whose professional excellence and civic contributions
embodythe mission and values of DPNA.
Selection Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate:
- Professional Excellence: Leadership and distinction in public administration, nonprofitmanagement, or community development
- Impact and Service: Meaningful contributions through professional work, volunteerism,
advocacy, or civic engagement
- Commitment to the Field: Sustained dedication to advancing public and nonprofit service
The alumni award is presented annually at the department's Graduate, Honors and Awards
Reception.
Nomination Process
Submit a Nomination
Supporting Excellence
All awards and recognition opportunities are made possible through the DPNA Foundation Account. This fund provides flexible resources to advance
departmental priorities and strengthen student success.
Gifts to the DPNA Foundation Account directly support:
- Student awards and recognition
- Emergency assistance for students facing unexpected barriers
- Professional development and conference travel
- Faculty scholarship and public impact
- Student recruitment and program advancement
- Departmental events that strengthen the community
- Alumni engagement and lifelong connection to DPNA
Through these investments, DPNA expands opportunity, removes barriers, and reinforces a culture of excellence and public impact.
Support DPNA in empowering students, advancing faculty scholarship, and strengthening communities.
Give Today
