The year 2025 seems far away, but the deadline to nominate an outstanding Redbird for the 2025 Alumni Awards will be here this July.
Each year the Illinois State University’s Alumni Association recognizes individuals who personify the University’s tradition as an environment for excellence. Through outstanding achievements and contributions, these individuals bring honor to Illinois State and the Alumni Association. Established in 1971 with just one award, the program has grown to six award categories. The awards—Distinguished Alumni Award, Outstanding Young Alumni Award, Alumni Achievement Award, E. Burton Mercier Service Award, Andrew Purnell Jr. Trailblazer Award, and the Senator John Maitland Jr. Commitment to Education Award—are presented annually in the spring.
The new and improved nomination process is simple with the option for the nominator or nominee to complete the form and also suggest names for letters of recommendation. The deadline to submit for the 2025 awards is July 31, 2024.
Recipients are honored by the association at a recognition ceremony where they have the opportunity to speak and formally accept the award.
Questions can be directed to Jamie Sennett ’99, senior director of Alumni Engagement.
Meet the 2024 Alumni Award recipients
- Distinguished Alumni Award
Dr. Thomas Grites ’66, M.S. ’67 - Alumni Achievement Award
Dr. Sally Arnett ’97
Dave Breen ’88 - Senator John W. Maitland Jr. Commitment to Education Award
Rhona Israel ’83 - E. Burton Mercier Alumni Service Award
Ron Whitton Jr. ’80 - Andrew Purnell Jr. Trailblazer Award
Simón Rodriguez Jr. ’13
Reginald “Reggie” Summerrise ’86 - Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Dr. Kristen M. Pesavento ’05
