Presidents’ Awards

Seed Coalition Presidents’ Awards recognize outstanding contributions in civic and community engagement across member campus communities. Each year we invite every campus to designate awardees to be recognized at the event.

This year’s awards

The 2026 awards celebration will be held 2-4pm on Thursday, April 9th in Buntrock Commons at St. Olaf College in Northfield. Doors will open at 1:00.

What awards are offered?

This year’s awards have been streamlined to focus on recognition across member campuses, eliminating competitive categories to better reflect the collaborative spirit of civic and community engagement. Each campus and community brings its own strengths, priorities, and partnerships, and these awards honor the many ways our coalition advances this work.

Student Civic Leadership Award

Recognizes a student or group who model civic responsibility and leadership through initiative, collaboration, and community building, integrating civic engagement into their college experience.

Civic Educator Award

Recognizes a faculty or staff member who models civic responsibility by supporting students’ civic development and strengthening a culture of engagement on campus through their teaching, mentorship, or leadership.

Community Partner Award

Recognizes a community-based partner or organization that enriches both educational and community outcomes through sustained, reciprocal partnerships with a college or university.

Community Collaboration Award

Recognizes a project or initiative co-created by campus and community partners that showcases meaningful collaboration and exemplifies the campus’s civic and community engagement, contributing to both student learning and community well-being.

How do I nominate an individual or group for an award?

Only one form should be submitted for each member campus. Each campus can decide how to coordinate their local award selection process. Our staff is available for questions and to discuss best options for organizing your campus’ submission. Nominations are due on Friday, February 27.

Be sure to subscribe to our e-newsletter for notifications of when nominations open and important deadline updates.

Award Nomination Form