About the award

The Legacy of Service Award honors an individual whose life and career exemplify a sustained commitment to service within the field of natural resources. This award recognizes those who place community, the environment, and the greater public good above self, demonstrating generosity of spirit, leadership through action, and a lasting positive impact on others.

Recipients reflect a lifetime of meaningful engagement and service. Through professional leadership, volunteerism, mentorship, philanthropy, advocacy, or innovation in natural resources, honorees leave a legacy that inspires future generations and embodies the enduring values of the college.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

  • A distinguished record of contributions that have advanced the field of natural resources, environmental stewardship, or related disciplines.
  • Long-term dedication to serving communities, ecosystems, organizations, or the public good through their work and/or volunteer efforts. 
  • Evidence of leadership that creates meaningful change whether through professional roles, community engagement, or grassroots efforts. 
  • A body of work that has had an enduring impact and continues to inspire others, including mentorship, capacity-building, or systemic change. 
  • Contributions that reflect the mission and values of the College of Natural Resources and Environment, including stewardship, integrity, collaboration, and service. 
  • Nominees do not need to be alumni of the college but must have made significant contributions to the field of natural resources.

Application materials

  • Nominee’s employer, position, class year, and major
  • Describe your relationship to the nominee (50 words or less)
  • Explain why the nominee should receive this award (500 words or less)
  • Describe the nominee’s recent involvement with the College of Natural Resources and Environment
  • CV or resume

Selection and award presentation

  • Reviewed by a selection committee comprised of a faculty, an A/P faculty member from the CNRE Advising Center, CNRE Assistant Dean of Advancement, CNRE Marketing and Communications Director, and CNRE Alumni Director.
  • Recognition
  • The award recipient will be recognized at the annual College of Natural Resources and Environment awards celebration in Spring and receive a plaque from the Alumni Association.

Past Recipients