The Iowa State University Alumni Association (ISUAA) established this award in 2021 to recognize ISU alumni and friends in the greater Kansas City area whose career achievements and/or volunteer service/efforts have made a positive impact on the greater Kansas City community and Iowa State University. Up to two awards granted annually.

A nomination form is required. Nominations will remain active for three years.

Selection will be based on two primary criteria:

• How the nominee used their career achievements and/or volunteer efforts to positively impact the great Kansas City community
• How the nominee demonstrates meaningful engagement with Iowa State University since graduation or becoming connected to Iowa State University as a friend of the university

Nominees must:

• Hold a degree from Iowa State University or have demonstrated a strong Cyclone connection to the university
• Maintain a residence in the greater Kansas City market or one of its suburbs at the time of nomination

Those not eligible:

• Previous recipients
• Current members or relatives of the ISUAA Board of Directors, ISUAA staff, and the awards selection committee
• Persons currently holding or running for elected city, county, state, or federal public office in Kansas or Missouri

The award may not be conferred in absentia; however, it may be granted posthumously.

When nominating a couple or family for the award, be sure all individuals meet the selection criteria. Each person will be judged as if they are being independently nominated.

The award will be presented at the Kansas City Cardinal & Gold Gala each spring.

Should the committee determine that the nominee would be more appropriately honored by means of a different award, it reserves the right to consider each nominee for other, more suitable recognition.

Deadline for nominations is December 1 annually.