MSU Alumni, Faculty, Staff, Students, and Friends
You are submitting a nomination for the 2026 MSU Black Alumni, Inc. (MSUBA) Distinguished Alumni Award! We will recognize honorees on Sunday, October 11, 2026, during the Shirley M Rogers Distinguished Alumni and Scholarship Awards Brunch at the Hilton Garden Inn.
All nominations must be received by 11:59 pm, Monday, July 27, 2026.
Late forms will not be accepted, nor will extensions be granted. Each section of the form must be completed, and the nominator must provide all material pertinent to the nomination. The selection committee will not conduct further research on behalf of any nominee.
Eligibility Requirements
The nominee must be an MSU alumnus, a faculty (or staff member), or a current member of MSUBA.
The nominator must be an MSU alumnus, a faculty (or staff member, or a current student.
If selected, we encourage their presence at the award ceremony during homecoming weekend in October. However, attendance is not mandatory.
This year, the MSUBA Board of Directors will present four awards in the following categories:
1. Clifton R. Wharton Jr. Distinguished Alumni Award
The prestigious Clifton R. Wharton Jr. Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes an MSU alumnus who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, significant professional achievement over a minimum of fifteen (15) years, and a commitment to service. Nominees should have a record of pioneering accomplishments in their field, meaningful community involvement, dedication to fostering inclusion and understanding, and support for the mission and objectives of MSUBA.
2. Rising Star Award
This award recognizes a recent Michigan State University alumnus who has demonstrated exceptional promise, innovation, and achievement early in their career. Nominees should have made meaningful contributions to their profession, community, or both, while exemplifying leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact.
3. Trailblazer Alumni Award
This award recognizes an individual who has advanced the mission and goals of MSUBA through exceptional innovation, visionary leadership, and groundbreaking achievements. Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to creating positive change and have made meaningful contributions to their profession, community, or both.
4. Community Service /University Service Award
This award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to their community, the Michigan State University Black Alumni (MSUBA), and/or Michigan State University through their time, talents, actions, and unwavering dedication. Recipients have demonstrated a sustained commitment to service, leadership, and volunteerism, creating a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of others and the organizations they serve.
Nominations
Nominees are limited to a maximum of two categories and can win only one award. The MSUBA National Board of Directors will make the final selections and determine the specific award category for each winner.
Nominees must exemplify integrity, compassion, and a commitment to treating others with dignity and respect. Eligible candidates demonstrate selfless kindness, deep dedication to a cause, vision, and proven leadership alongside unprecedented accomplishments in their industry, profession, or community. Furthermore, the nominee’s core beliefs and societal contributions must align with the mission and vision of MSUBA.
Selection Criteria
Candidates must demonstrate outstanding contributions to society through professional, academic, or personal achievements. Applicants are required to disclose any felony convictions for transparency. A conviction will not automatically disqualify a nominee, but full details must be submitted for MSUBA Board review.
**Note: an untruthful answer and/or a false statement will result in the nomination being denied.
If you have questions, please email nominations@msuba.org.
CURRENT NATIONAL BOARD MEMBERS, 2026 HOMECOMING COMMITTEE MEMBERS, AND LOCAL CHAPTER BOARD MEMBERS AND THEIR IMMEDIATE FAMILY ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THESE AWARDS.
ALL NOMINATION QUESTIONS MUST BE ANSWERED IN THEIR ENTIRETY. ONLY COMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED.
Good Luck and GO GREEN!