Distinguished Alumni Awards Nomination

About the Awards

The Distinguished Alumni Award honors outstanding University at Buffalo School of Social Work alumni (BSW, MSW, PhD in social welfare) who have made noteworthy contributions to social work practice and/or research and who, by their positive attitude and drive to make a difference, have added distinction to the social work profession. These awards commenced in 1977.

Award recipients are honored during an event in the spring. All nominees will receive a letter of recognition notifying them of the nomination.

Nominations must be received by December 1

Eligibility Requirements

Recipients of the Distinguished Alumni Award MUST be a UBSSW Social Welfare Doctoral or MSW or BSW Program Alumnus. Nominators are not required to be UBSSW Alumnus.

Selection Criteria

  • At least five years of professional experience as social workers
  • Demonstrates consistent, outstanding service to clients, the UBSSW, the community and/or the profession
  • Creates impactful and lasting contributions to the profession
  • Actively involved in outreach and advocacy related to social work

Additional criteria for PhD Nominees:

  • Engages in significant research for advancing the knowledge base of social work
  • Participates in innovative research strategies for solving complex social problems

Questions and supporting documents may be directed to Denise Krause at dkrause@buffalo.edu or (716) 645-1223.

Online Nomination Form