Torchbearer Awards
The inaugural Torchbearer Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday, Apr. 16, 2026.
Purpose
UND and CEHD are committed to recognizing the accomplishments of individuals from diverse backgrounds, reflective of all degrees and programs within the college.
The Torchbearer Awards were established by the college and its Alumni Advisory Board (CAAB) to honor alumni and friends who exemplify the college’s core values through leadership, innovation, service, and mentorship.
The process of selecting awardees considers diversity across geography, academic disciplines and class year. Awards may be granted posthumously.
Award Categories
CEHD Torchbearer Emerging Leader Award
Recognizes early-career alumni (within 10 years of graduation) who demonstrate outstanding leadership and potential for significant impact.
CEHD Torchbearer Innovation and Community Impact Award
Honors individuals whose innovative work has made meaningful contributions to education and/or community well-being.
CEHD Torchbearer Mentorship Award
Celebrates those who have significantly influenced others through formal or informal mentorship, advancing the growth of students, professionals, or community members.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nominees must be graduates or former students of CEHD at the University of North Dakota.
- CEHD faculty and staff are not eligible until two years post-employment.
- Current members of the CEHD College Alumni Advisory Board are ineligible during their service.
- Posthumous nominations are allowed and will be thoughtfully considered.
Nomination Process
Call for Nominations
Every year, the CEHD College Alumni Advisory Board puts out a call for nominations via CEHD newsletters, social media, and UND alumni channels. Nominations can be submitted by alumni, faculty, staff, students, or community members. Self-nominations are encouraged.
Nomination Requirements
Please submit the following to nominate an individual for a Torchbearer Award:
- Nominee’s contact information
- Nominee’s resume or CV (if available)
- Statement of nomination (500–750 words) detailing qualifications, achievements, and relevance to award category
- Minimum of one (1) and maximum of three (3) letters of support
Torchbearer Award Nomination Form
Deadline
All nominations must be submitted by November 15. Honorees will be recognized at the annual Torchbearer Awards, which are held in April.
Review and Selection Process
Initial Screening
The CAAB Torchbearer Awards Recognition Subcommittee compiles all nominations into a matrix aligned with rubric criteria. College staff then ensures completeness and confirms eligibility.
Review Committee
The Recognition Subcommittee reviews nominations, applies the rubric and advances 2–3 finalists per category.
Approval
The finalist slate is submitted to the full CEHD College Alumni Advisory Board for discussion and vote in early January. Awardees will be notified by the Dean and announced publicly at the Torchbearer Awards in April.
Selection Rubric
| Criteria | Weight | Exemplary (5) | Proficient (3) | Emerging (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Demonstrated Impact in Category | 40% | Clear, sustained, transformational impact | Moderate, positive, ongoing efforts | Promising but limited |
| Leadership & Initiative | 20% | Takes initiative; influences systems | Participates in leadership; positive example | In early stages |
| Service to CEHD/UND/Community | 20% | Significant and consistent service | Occasional engagement | Limited or unclear |
| Diversity of Experience and Representation | 10% | Broadly represents UND/CEHD values and diversity | Somewhat representative | Limited |
| Letters of Support | 10% | Strong, specific, and multiple | General and positive | Few or vague |
Recognition
Honorees will be celebrated at the annual Torchbearer Awards. Posthumous honorees will be recognized with a tribute and a family representative (if applicable).
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