2015 Tenth Annual
Distinguished Achievement Awards
The Distinguished Achievement Awards honor those individuals or corporations who personify URI’s tradition of excellence in professional achievement, leadership contributions, and/or community service, thereby bringing distinction to themselves and to the University of Rhode Island.
The Distinguished Achievement Awards President’s Award
The President’s Award is given to individuals who demonstrate a commitment to exceptional leadership, contribute to the betterment of their industry and community; as well as noteworthy engagement with the University by supporting our students through experiential learning, scholarship, and employment of URI graduates, and contribute to the sustainability and future of the University through volunteerism and philanthropic endeavors.
The Distinguished Achievement Awards Deans’ Award
The Deans’ Award is given to individuals who, through their longevity and commitment to their chosen field, demonstrate a significant contribution to their industry, as well as noteworthy engagement with the University. Engagement is measured by a variety of factors such as: attendance at URI events, participation in URI committees, active membership in the URI Alumni Association, participation and support of students through experiential learning, scholarship, and employment of URI graduates, and contribution to the sustainability and future of the University.
The Distinguished Achievement Awards Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award is given to young URI alumni with at least 10 years in their career field who are already making significant contributions to their profession and community at-large by demonstrating innovative, responsible professional leadership, potential for future distinction and a commitment to serving others.
The URI Distinguished Achievement Award recipients are selected by a committee composed of representatives from URI’s colleges, the Office of the President, the Office of the Provost, the Division of University Advancement, the Department of Athletics, the Alumni Association, and the graduate and undergraduate student body. (Note: Faculty, staff, students, and honorary degree recipients are not eligible to receive a University of Rhode Island Distinguished Achievement Award.)
For information on how to nominate someone for a Distinguished Achievement Award visit:
For more additional information, please contact the Office of Public Programming and Special Events at 401.874.9455.