Grad Awards

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The College of Engineering recognizes student recipients of the awards and prizes at the annual Student Leaders and Honors Brunch. This page lists the award description and stipend amount for each award. For details on the nomination process and deadlines or answers to other questions, please see the Office of Student Affairs.

College Awards and Prizes

Richard and Eleanor Towner Prize for Distinguished Academic Achievement

This award is presented to the outstanding graduate student (master’s or PhD students) in each degree program. Criteria considered by the department awards committee include student’s active participation in research, leadership and academic performance (GPA). The cost sharing agreement between departments and the college to fund this award is $500 (department) and $500 (college). Departments are free to increase the amount of the award if they wish.

Marian Sarah Parker Prize

Marian Sarah Parker Prize is presented to two outstanding women (one senior and one graduate student) who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership qualities and outstanding contributions to the university and/or community. $1,000.

College Leadership Awards

Conferred upon undergraduate and graduate students of the College of Engineering who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the college, university and community. Students nominated for this award will be automatically notified and asked to complete additional information pertaining to their experiences and understanding of leadership. The additional information must be completed in order to have your nomination considered by the leadership awards committee. All submissions are considered. Gift amount varies.

Harry B. Benford Award for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student who has exhibited entrepreneurial flair and leadership ability, and who has capitalized effectively on the technological and engineering resources available in the College of Engineering. Nominees may be budding inventors or small business owners, leaders of team projects, community volunteers or student organization leaders. $5,000.

College Society Awards

Elaine Harden Award

Presented to the Engineering student organization that best exemplifies dedicated leadership and service to the community. $500.

Outstanding Student Organization Advisor Award

Presented to recognize the efforts of student organization advisors. This award is presented annually to honor the leadership, guidance and support advisors provide to student groups on campus. Nomination must include a minimum of two (2) one-page, signed recommendation letters from students who have worked closely with the nominee and a nomination statement regarding how the advisor has encouraged, motivated and supported the organization from the student organization’s executive board. Plaque.