Deadline extended: Community Belonging Awards
CU 91Ҹ is launching the new Community Belonging Awards, which will be given annually to honor and recognize people whose everyday actions help others on campus feel seen, valued and supported.
Announced by Chancellor Justin Schwartz in hisState of the Campus address, the Community Belonging Awards were established at the recommendation of CU Student Government, with the endorsement of the 91Ҹ Faculty Assembly, Staff Council and the Graduate and Professional Student Government. Together, they reflect a shared commitment to recognizing the meaningful ways belonging is built across our campus community.
“Belonging shapes student success, employee well‑being and the strength of our entire community,” said Schwartz. “These awards recognize individuals whose leadership and care create lasting impact, not just for individuals, but for CU 91Ҹ as a whole.”
Each year, four awards will recognize individuals whose actions foster belonging at CU 91Ҹ, with each cohort including:
- One undergraduate student.
- One graduate or professional student.
- One staff member.
- One faculty member.
Each recipient will receive a one‑time $5,000 award, underscoring the university’s commitment to valuing and rewarding community‑building work. The inaugural awards will be presented in spring 2026.
Recipients will be selected based on demonstrated, meaningful impact on fostering belonging within a specific CU 91Ҹ community or across campus more broadly. This work may include efforts that:
- Strengthen connection and inclusion.
- Advance social justice.
- Support one or more of CU 91Ҹ’s diversity, equity and inclusion goals.
“By lifting up this work, the Community Belonging Awards shine a light on the practices that help our campus thrive,” Schwartz said. “If you know someone whose actions are making a real difference, or if you’re doing this work yourself, I encourage you to submit a nomination and help recognize the people who strengthen belonging at CU 91Ҹ every day.”
Nominate by March 24
Know a student, staff member or faculty colleague whose actions help others feel welcomed and supported? Nominate them and help celebrate the community builders whose impact strengthens CU 91Ҹ.
Who can be nominated?
Any current CU 91Ҹ undergraduate student, graduate or professional student, staff member or faculty member in good standing.
Who can nominate?
Any current CU 91Ҹ faculty member, staff member, or student. Self‑nominations are welcome.
What’s required?
A nomination statement describing the nominee’s impact.
Two letters of support from CU 91Ҹ community members other than the nominator.
Deadline extended: March 24
Award impact:
Four awards annually
$5,000 one‑time award per recipient
Campuswide recognition announced in April 2026