Nominees selected for recognition at the Hall of Distinction exemplify Franciscan values. Their lives contradict our society’s stress on individualism and materialism and are led, instead, by joyfulness of spirit, reverence of life, justice, humility and service.
When submitting a nomination please provide the full name of the nominee, graduation year and a brief narrative (1/2 page to 1 page). A successful nomination will address at least 2-3 of the listed criteria related to the intended award and will describe what qualities the nominee possesses to make them worthy of recognition.
- Rising Star Alumni Award
- Shining Star Alumni Award
- Distinguished Alumni Award
You have two ways to submit your nomination(s):
- Online: Complete the form below and submit before the deadline.
- Email: Include the information requested below in an email to Marlena.Zello@franu.edu before the deadline.
*The deadline for submitting nominations for the 2026 Hall of Distinction is January 16th, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Awards Nomination Criteria
- FranU graduate (within last 5 years)
- Professional Service
- Workplace role / position
- Professional accomplishments
- Professional group(s) membership and participation
- Active engagement in community service exhibiting the University’s core values
- Joyfulness of Spirit
- Reverence and Love for All Life
- Justice
- Humility
- Service
Note: volunteer service only; additional levels of participation with the organization (i.e., financial support) are not a factor considered for the award
- FranU graduate (between 5 and 15 years ago)
- Professional Service
- Workplace role / position
- Professional accomplishments
- Professional group(s) membership and participation
- Active engagement in community service exhibiting the University’s core values
- Joyfulness of Spirit
- Reverence and Love for All Life
- Justice
- Humility
- Service
Note: volunteer service only; additional levels of participation with the organization (i.e., financial support) are not a factor considered for the award
In keeping with the tradition of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady (FMOL) and demonstrating the vision to make a significant difference in our communities the Distinguished Alumni Award honors an individual who exemplifies the following:
- FranU graduate (greater than 15 years ago)
- Demonstrates the University’s core values through everyday activities
- Joyfulness of Spirit
- Reverence and Love for All Life
- Justice
- Humility
- Service
- Fosters collaboration
- Exhibits community leadership
- Engaged with University and/or FMOLHS community
Note: volunteer service only; additional levels of participation with the organization (i.e., financial support) are not a factor considered for the award.
-
All nominations will be confidential.
-
Nominators may nominate more than one person for these awards.
Where Progress Makes Headlines
How Grace Fortson Is Blending Nutrition and Movement to Support Whole-Body Wellness
For Grace Fortson, wellness is not about quick fixes or rigid routines. It is about balance, sustainability and understanding the body in a deeper way.
FranU Launches Student Success Team to Support Students
FranU introduces its new Student Success Team.
Meeting Students Where They Are
Dr. Alexander joined FranU in 2022 and is a beloved professor whose story begins as a high school junior in chemistry class.