Student Leadership Awards

Students at the 2024 student leadership awards

Penn State World Campus annually recognizes exceptional students and student organizations for outstanding leadership within the Penn State community. Selected by a committee composed of faculty and staff, the Penn State World Campus Student Leadership awards were established in 2021 to highlight exemplary service and leaders within the Penn State World Campus student body.

Nominations for the 2025 Student Leadership Awards are now open and will be accepted through Sunday, March 9, at 11:59 p.m. (ET).

Learn about the 2024 Student Leadership Award winners

Learn about the 2023 Student Leadership Award winners

Individual Awards

Emerging Leader Award

This award recognizes a World Campus student in the early stages of their involvement who has demonstrated significant leadership potential through impactful contributions to campus organizations or community initiatives. The recipient exhibits initiative, a strong work ethic, and the ability to inspire others, even while holding a relatively new or informal leadership role within their organization at World Campus.

Inclusive Excellence Award

This award recognizes a current World Campus student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the University, their organization, or the broader community. Through their efforts and advocacy, the recipient actively fosters an inclusive environment and strengthens community connections, exemplifying the values of inclusive excellence and social impact.

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Leadership Award

This award is presented to a current World Campus undergraduate student whose leadership has had a demonstrated impact on Penn State World Campus or their community, exemplifying the Penn State values of integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community.

Outstanding Graduate Student Leadership Award

This award is presented to a current World Campus graduate student whose leadership has had a demonstrated impact on Penn State World Campus or their community, exemplifying the Penn State values of integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community.

Organization Adviser of the Year

This award recognizes a faculty or staff organization adviser who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, mentorship, and support in guiding their organization to success. Through their leadership, encouragement, and commitment, the adviser fosters an environment of growth, collaboration, and inclusivity. They serve as a role model, providing valuable guidance that empowers student leaders to achieve their goals, develop their skills, and make a meaningful impact within their organization and the broader Penn State World Campus community.

Academic Adviser of the Year

This award is presented to a World Campus academic adviser who demonstrates exceptional dedication to guiding, supporting and mentoring students on their educational journey at Penn State. Through their unwavering commitment, they help advisees navigate the University’s academic system and overcome challenges and barriers to success. They go above and beyond in developing an understanding of individual student needs and proactively advising to empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals.

Exemplary Student Service Award

This award recognizes a World Campus staff member who goes above and beyond in their commitment to student success. With students at the heart of everything they do, the recipient of this award demonstrates an unwavering dedication to supporting, advocating for, and empowering students. They are a true champion for students, consistently going the extra mile to provide exceptional service and/or guidance and care.

Educator of the Year Award

This award recognizes a World Campus faculty member or instructor who exemplifies excellence in online teaching and demonstrates the ability to build community through inclusive and supportive learning environments. The educator thoughtfully engages students, fostering meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the screen. Through their dedication, care, and innovative teaching strategies, they inspire growth and promote deep learning.

Organization Awards

Innovative Programming Award

This award recognizes a student organization that took an inventive and original approach to creating or updating an existing program. The program aligned with organization mission and engaged World Campus students through creative planning and marketing.

Student Organization of the Year

This award recognizes a World Campus student organization that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, engagement, and impact on the campus community in fulfilling their organization mission. The organization embodies a commitment to leadership development, collaboration among groups, and programmatic efforts to foster community and belonging at World Campus.

Membership Engagement Award

This award recognizes an organization that has prioritized the retention and active involvement of their membership. This organization has worked to foster a sense of community within their membership, from new to returning members. They value all members and encourage involvement in the organization regardless of the time spent in the organization.

New Beginnings Organization Award

This award honors a newly recognized or re-instated student organization that has established a strong foundation for success within its first two years. Through impactful programming, effective processes, and dedicated member engagement, this organization has made a significant impact by addressing an unmet need within the World Campus community. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth, the organization has laid the groundwork for its long-term sustainability and lasting contributions to student life.