The highest honor bestowed upon a Washington State University alumnus is the WSU Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Since 1962, the award has been presented to 34 men and women who have made distinguished contributions to society and/or have brought distinction to the university through personal achievement.
Most recently, in the fall of 2004, distinguished molecular biologist John N. Abelson received the honor. Other winners include Mary DeGarmo, pioneer in working with music and Braille music translation; Edward R. Murrow, broadcasting’s renowned news analyst and reporter; and William Julius Wilson, sociologist known for his research on the black underclass.
The award committee, chaired by Penne Pierson, WSU ombudsman’s office, invites confidential nominations for the honor. She encourages individuals to nominate several deserving alumni. Because the selection process is confidential, nominees should not be notified of their nomination. Nomination deadline is Feb. 28. Send nomination material to Sonia Hussa, university events, 446 French Administration Building, Pullman, WA 99164-1040.
Nominations should include:
· Name and address (with daytime and evening phone numbers) of nominee;
· A statement about why the individual is being nominated and a review of the nominee’s distinguished accomplishments.
· Academic degree information of the nominee;
· Nominee’s complete and current resume and other supporting information;
· Nominee’s current title/affiliation;
· Names and addresses of references who could speak on behalf of the nominee.
· Nominator’s daytime/evening phone numbers and e-mail address.
For additional information, contact Pierson at (509) 335-1991. A complete list of award recipients is available online at https://www.regents.wsu.edu/distinguished-alumni.
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