Publication and Project Competition Awards 
Category: Events 

Events – Students

This award recognizes outstanding single-event initiatives that engage and benefit students within a specific college or organization. The events for students category honors the successful planning, execution, and evaluation of an event—whether focused on recruitment, student engagement, or other student-centered objectives—that demonstrates exceptional creativity, impact, and effectiveness.

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria: (1) the scope and scale of the event, (2) the measurable impact on student participation and engagement, (3) the level of student involvement and attendance, (4) the outcomes achieved (e.g., increased engagement, strengthened community, or recruitment success), (5) the uniqueness and innovation of the event concept, and (6) the quality and creativity of event collateral (including promotional materials, programs, and signage).

The recipient of this award will have demonstrated excellence in creating an event that not only captures the interest of students but also drives meaningful engagement, fosters a sense of community, and achieves measurable success. This event exemplifies the power of thoughtful design and strategic planning in delivering an impactful experience for students.

Events – Alumni

This award recognizes exceptional single-event initiatives designed to engage alumni and other key stakeholders, celebrating the successful planning, execution, and evaluation of an event that fosters lasting connections and strengthens the alumni community. The events for alumni category honors events that creatively engage alumni, encourage meaningful participation, and further the mission of the institution or organization.

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria: (1) the scope and scale of the event, (2) the impact it had on alumni engagement and community-building, (3) the level of alumni and stakeholder participation, (4) the outcomes achieved (e.g., increased alumni involvement, strengthened alumni relations), (5) the uniqueness and innovation of the event concept, and (6) the design and quality of event collateral, including invitations, programs, signage, and promotional materials.

The recipient of this award will have demonstrated an exceptional ability to design and execute an event that not only captivates and connects alumni but also achieves meaningful, measurable outcomes. This event stands out for its creativity, thoughtful execution, and ability to foster deeper engagement with the alumni community and other stakeholders.

 Events – Development

This award recognizes outstanding single-event initiatives designed specifically to raise funds from donors—including current, prospective, and/or corporate supporters—for the advancement of a college or organization. The events for development category celebrates the successful planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising events that effectively engage donors, raise financial support, and advance the institution’s mission.

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria: (1) the scope and scale of the event, (2) the impact on donor engagement and the advancement of fundraising goals, (3) the level of donor participation and involvement, (4) the measurable outcomes achieved (e.g., total funds raised, new donor acquisition, donor retention), (5) the creativity and originality of the event concept, and (6) the quality and design of event collateral, including invitations, programs, signage, and promotional materials.

The recipient of this award will have demonstrated exceptional strategic planning and creativity in designing an event that not only raises critical funds but also strengthens relationships with donors and enhances the institution's advancement efforts. This event exemplifies excellence in fundraising, effectively combining innovative engagement strategies with tangible outcomes that support the organization’s long-term goals.