The Office of Alumni Relations proudly announces the opening of nominations for the University of Utah’s 2026 Founders Day Awards.

U Alumni annually presents its Founders Day Distinguished Alumni Awards to alumni for their outstanding professional achievements, public service and/or commitment to the U. Additionally, the Honorary Alumnus/a Award is presented to an individual who either did not attend the U or who went to the U for a brief time (a year or less) and who has contributed significantly to the advancement of the U through personal involvement, including donations, volunteer work and/or other forms of support.

The GOLD Alumni Award will also be presented to an outstanding alumnus/alumna who graduated in the last decade.

These annual distinguished and honorary alumni awards, along with honorary degrees, are the highest honors awarded by the University of Utah.

If you know an individual or couple who you feel deserves this recognition, please submit a nomination by Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

The award presentations will take place during the Founders Day celebration at the Cleone Peterson Eccles Alumni House in February 2026.

Nominate here.

Click here to view the list of past award winners.

Nominations will be reviewed in September 2025, and all nominators will be contacted before the end of October. If you have any questions about your nomination, please also reach out to Lauren Hoss at lauren.hoss@alumni.utah.edu.