Inclusive Excellence Award
Bellisario College of Communications
Award for Inclusive Excellence
Purpose
To recognize individuals and programs that have evidenced extraordinary commitment to enhancing our environment of mutual respect for differing backgrounds and points of view. These awards highlight undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty members, staff members and programs within the Bellisario College that are supportive and welcoming of everyone in the Bellisario community. These awards allow us to share the success stories and celebrate the leadership and vision of these Bellisario College community members and programs and continue to nurture a respectful environment within the Bellisario College.
Recognition may be given for activities in the Bellisario College, at Penn State or in service to the mass communications industry. Categories for awards are for students (undergraduate or graduate) and for faculty or staff. One in each category may be awarded each year. Awards can honor individuals or groups (such as student organizations, centers or lab groups). Faculty members may be nominated for their work with students.
This award includes a certificate of recognition, a Nittany Lion statue and a cash stipend. Award winners from the previous three years are not eligible for that particular award the following year.
Eligibility & Selection Criteria
The Award for Inclusive Excellence will recognize outstanding accomplishments and general impact in any of the following areas affecting diversity or climate:
- developing a shared and inclusive understanding of diversity
- creating a welcoming campus climate
- recruiting and retaining a diverse student body
- recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce
- developing a curriculum that fosters intercultural and international competence
- diversifying University leadership and management
- coordinating organizational change to support our diversity
- showing evidence of inclusive teaching and/or program development
- conducting research and/or creative activity related to the experiences, realities, and/or contributions of persons from underrepresented populations
- demonstrating leadership in programming, training, or other experiences which serve to advance diversity, equity and inclusion
- encouraging the professional advancement, academic advancement, or well-being of underrepresented groups
- contributing to diversity and equal opportunity through advising and mentoring of faculty or students
- advancing the education of undergraduate, graduate, or professional students from underrepresented groups in the field of instruction and include activities such as classroom instruction, direction of independent study, theses and dissertations and mentoring
- conducting research or developing creative works that have the potential to improve the quality of life for underrepresented groups
Nomination Process
Individuals or organizations can self-nominate or be nominated throughout the year.
Nominees can be from individual or groups of faculty, staff, graduate students or undergrad students.
- Nominee/nominator must submit 1. A detailed description of the initiative/efforts that promotes diversity and an inclusive community; 2. Evidence of its impact; and 3. The names and contact information for three individuals who can attest to that impact.
The form below may be used to complete nominations.
Selection Process
The nominations will be reviewed, and the recipients shall be recommended by a Bellisario College committee appointed by the dean. The award winners will be publicly recognized at an appropriate Bellisario College or department event, as well as through the our social media channels and University news outlets.
Nomination Form
DEADLINE: April 4, 2025