Awards & Recognitions

Student Awards

Image
Senior-Awardees-with-Wilbur-and-Wilma-mascots-before-ceremony-in-Lowell-Stevens

The University of Arizona Senior Awards are some of the highest honors granted to graduating undergraduates. The Freeman, Robie and Nugent Awards, two each, and the Provost Award, are celebrated at the university-wide Spring Commencement in May. They are not dependent on field of study, but rather on character and impact.  

Award Descriptions

Dr. Merrill Freeman served the University of Arizona as a Chancellor of the Arizona Board of Regents. Two medals are awarded annually to graduating students demonstrating high moral character, and campus and community engagement. This is a medal award. 

Wendell T. Robie (class of 1917) and Inez Benzie Robie (class of 1916) established the Robie Gold Medal Award. Awarded to two graduating seniors, candidates should demonstrate exemplary academic and extracurricular achievements and be contributing influential members of the campus community. Applicants should have well-rounded interests, prioritize service to the University and Student Affairs. They also must demonstrate personal integrity, initiative, collaboration, enthusiasm, and willingness to give more than required. 

The Nugent Award was established by the Alumni Association and named in memory of Robert Logan Nugent who was the University of Arizona Executive Vice President when he died in June 1963. The award honors two graduating students who exemplify the high ideals of Dr. Nugent, including active and enthusiastic participation in and service to community and University endeavors. 

The Provost Award was established in 2014 to honor one outstanding graduating student who transferred to the University of Arizona from an Arizona community college. Candidates should demonstrate perseverance and commitment to academic studies, contributions to the University community, and strong leadership abilities. To be eligible, a student must have transferred in with at least 36 transferable units. 

Awards Criteria and Nomination Form

Eligible students must have graduated in December 2024 or be scheduled to graduate in May 2025. Awardees must complete the degree check process and be in good standing with the University.  

The nomination period for the 2025 Senior and Provost Awards starts on Monday, January 10, 2025, and ends on Monday, January 27, 2025, at noon. Late nominations will not be considered. 

If you have any questions about these awards, please contact the Student Affairs Awards Team at studentaffairs@arizona.edu.