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2026 EACE Awards



The EACE Awards committee will begin accepting award nominations on January 1, 2026!  The new year is the perfect time to recognize and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and excellence of individuals, colleagues, employers, and/or programs. It's a chance to appreciate the positive impact they've had on the community or organization. Whether you're nominating someone else or considering a self-nomination, take this opportunity to highlight the achievements that deserve recognition. Explore the award categories to get inspired about how you or a colleague could be recognized.

Each year, EACE Awards honor and recognize those among us who have made a significant contribution to the Association or our industry as a whole.

  • Is there a program that you or a fellow member implemented that was innovative, redefined an existing practice or engaged students in a way that is either unique or substantial?
  • How about a new professional who has consistently impressed you with their efforts, energy and/or commitment?

Members are encouraged to either self-nominate or nominate a colleague that deserves recognition. EACE Awards are open to members only. You may check someone's EACE member status by searching the online membership directory. Current EACE Board Members and members of the Awards Sub-Committee are not eligible for award nomination.

Award nominations will open January 1, 2026.

 

Member Recognition Awards:

Excellence in Program Development & Innovation Award

This award recognizes excellence in the creation, enhancement, or implementation of an innovative program within recruiting or career services. It celebrates individuals or teams who have designed and executed a program that demonstrates creativity, impact, and long-term value to their institutions or organizations.

 

Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award

This award recognizes EACE members who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and commitment in advancing equity, access, and inclusion within career services or recruiting.  Recipients of this award have made measurable and lasting impacts through programs, partnerships, policies, or advocacy efforts that promote inclusive excellence.

 

Excellence in Technology Award

This award honors innovative, creative, and effective uses of technology that significantly enhance the delivery of services and advance success within the organization. Recipients demonstrate excellence in leveraging technology or social media to improve outcomes, streamline processes, and/or expand access.

 

Excellence in Employer Partnership Award

This award honors an employer who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to supporting college students and strengthening campus recruiting efforts. The recipient exemplifies outstanding partnership through a sustained commitment to recruiting, hiring, and cultivating future professionals. This employer views campuses as strategic partners rather than solely as talent pipelines. Through collaboration, mentorship, and meaningful investment in student success, they demonstrate a deep commitment to helping students transition from classroom to career and to developing the next generation of talent. Their impact may be realized through partnership with a specific institution or through broader engagement with professional associations such as EACE.

 

Member Service Awards:

Rising Star Award

Awarded to members who have made outstanding contributions through their involvement in EACE within the first 3 years of their membership.

Contributions from past winners include, but are not limited to:

  • Participation in EACE event series, initiatives, or a committee

  • Innovative contributions that enhanced EACE programming, member engagement, or communication

  • Significant efforts to foster collaboration, inclusion, or community within EACE

  • Consistent professionalism and enthusiasm that positively represents EACE to internal and external stakeholders

  • Identified as a member with high potential for future EACE leadership roles

 

Outstanding Member Award

This award recognizes members who have made outstanding contributions to the Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers (EACE) through their active involvement, leadership, and dedication to advancing the association’s mission.

Contributions from past winners include, but are not limited to:

  • Lead an EACE strategic alliances and/or partnerships

  • Create or participate in an EACE event series or initiative

  • Serve as a co-chair or an outstanding member of an EACE committee

  • Serve as a mentor for a new member or foster professional growth among peers

 

Tribute Award*

The Tribute Award honors EACE members who have demonstrated commitment, exceptional service, and impactful leadership. Recipients have made significant and lasting contributions to the growth and success of the association through their active involvement, collaboration, and dedication to EACE’s mission. 

Contributions from past winners include, but are not limited to:

  • Lead an EACE strategic alliances and/or partnerships

  • Develop an EACE event series or initiative

  • Serve as a co-chair or recognized as an outstanding member of an EACE committee

  • Contributed to EACE organization and committee goals

  • Serve as a mentor for a new member or foster professional growth among peers 

  • Dedicated to and enhanced the visibility and credibility of EACE

*Awarded at the Board’s discretion based upon nominations solicited, vetted and recommended by Awards Committee. The award is not, by definition, an annual award.

 

Distinguished Leadership Award*

This award honors outstanding and lasting contributions of such magnitude and quality to both EACE and the advancement of the field at-large as to merit public recognition and acclaim.

Contributions from past winners include, but are not limited to:

  • Visionary leadership in advancing the mission and strategic priorities of EACE

  • Leadership in strategic alliances or cross-sector collaborations that strengthen the profession

  • Development of innovative programs, resources, or partnerships that have enduring organizational impact

  • Creation or expansion of EACE event series, initiatives, or professional development opportunities

  • Literary and scholarly contributions that have made a significant impact regionally, nationally, or internationally

  • Mentorship and cultivation of emerging leaders within EACE or the broader field

  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the profession

  • Sustained service and dedication that has measurably enhanced the visibility and credibility of EACE

*Awarded at the Board’s discretion based upon nominations solicited, vetted and recommended by Awards Committee. The award is not, by definition, an annual award.

 

Past Recipients

Click here to view EACE Award recipients.

Questions?

Please see Awards FAQ or contact Awards Sub-Committee Co-Chairs: