Leadership & Service Awards

Each year, the Division of Student Affairs and the LEAD Center proudly celebrate the remarkable impact of Marshall University students, faculty, and staff through its annual awards program. These honors recognize exceptional leadership, meaningful service, and transformative contributions that enrich the university and the greater community. The program also highlights the vital role of faculty and staff advisors whose guidance and mentorship elevate student organizations. Complete descriptions of each award are provided below.

Individual Leadership Awards

Outstanding New Member
This award recognizes a new member of a student organization who has quickly made a positive and lasting impact. Through fresh ideas, dedicated service, and enthusiastic engagement, this student has strengthened their organization and contributed to its success.

Student Organization Advisor of the Year
This award recognizes a student organization advisor who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, guidance, and support. The recipient plays a vital role in mentoring student leaders, fostering organizational success, and empowering students to reach their highest potential.

Officer of the Year
This award recognizes an exceptional student organization officer who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, initiative, and commitment to their organization’s mission. The recipient leads with integrity and purpose while positively influencing their organization and its members.

President of the Year
This award recognizes a student organization president who exemplifies strong leadership and vision. Through collaboration, commitment, and effective leadership, this individual has made a positive impact on their organization and contributed to the overall campus community.

Freshman Leadership in Action Award
This award recognizes a first-year student who has taken initiative to become actively involved in student organizations while adjusting to college life. The recipient demonstrates leadership potential, commitment, and enthusiasm for contributing to campus life at Marshall University.

Sophomore Leadership in Action Award
This award recognizes a second-year student who has continued to demonstrate initiative and engagement in student organizations. The recipient shows growing leadership skills and a strong commitment to contributing meaningfully to campus life.

Junior Leadership in Action Award
This award recognizes a third-year student who exemplifies leadership through active involvement and dedication to their student organization(s). The recipient continually strives for personal growth while making a positive impact on Marshall’s campus.

Senior Leadership in Action Award
This award recognizes an outstanding senior student leader who has demonstrated sustained involvement and leadership throughout their time at Marshall University. The recipient has significantly enhanced campus life and shown strong potential for future leadership and success beyond graduation.

Graduate Student Leadership in Action Award
This award recognizes a graduate student who demonstrates exceptional involvement and leadership while balancing academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. The recipient exemplifies commitment, resilience, and meaningful engagement within the Marshall University community.

Outstanding Leadership in Campus Programming

This award recognizes an individual or student organization that has demonstrated excellence in creating engaging campus programs. Through innovative and inclusive events, the recipient has strengthened community, increased student involvement, and enhanced the campus experience.

Outstanding Leadership in Diversity Contributions

This award recognizes a student or student organization that has demonstrated leadership in advancing diversity, inclusion, and understanding on campus. Through education, advocacy, and meaningful programming, the recipient has fostered a more inclusive Marshall University community.

Outstanding Service to Marshall University

This award recognizes a student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership through service to Marshall University. Through innovation, initiative, and perseverance, the recipient has created positive changes on campus and in the community while maintaining strong academic achievement.

Leader of the Year

This award recognizes a student who has demonstrated exemplary leadership through selfless service and dedication to the Marshall University community. The recipient has brought honor and distinction to the university while making a lasting impact through their leadership and commitment to others.

Student Organization Awards

Outstanding New Student Organization
This award recognizes a new student organization that has made an immediate and meaningful impact on Marshall University and the student body. The organization has identified and addressed a previously unmet need or community issue through creative, innovative, and sustainable programming that enhances campus life.

Outstanding Community Impact
This award recognizes a student organization that has demonstrated a strong and sustained commitment to community service. Through impactful programs and meaningful engagement opportunities, the organization has exemplified civic responsibility and made a positive difference for Marshall University and the Huntington community.

Outstanding Leadership in Campus Programming
This award recognizes an individual or student organization that has demonstrated excellence in creating engaging campus programs. Through innovative and inclusive events, the recipient has strengthened community, increased student involvement, and enhanced the campus experience.

Outstanding Leadership in Diversity Contributions
This award recognizes a student or student organization that has demonstrated leadership in advancing diversity, inclusion, and understanding on campus. Through education, advocacy, and meaningful programming, the recipient has fostered a more inclusive Marshall University community.

Most Improved Organization
This award recognizes a student organization that has demonstrated significant growth and improvement during the past year. Through increased membership, expanded or enhanced programming, and greater campus engagement, the organization has strengthened its contributions to the Marshall community.

Student Organization of the Year
This award recognizes a student organization that has consistently demonstrated excellence through impactful programming, educational opportunities, and service initiatives. The organization has made meaningful contributions to its members, the student body, and the Marshall University community.