Recognition
All qualified students are encouraged to apply for the following awards as a way to celebrate your dedication and contributions. These honors recognize the hard work, leadership and impact of individuals committed to making a difference at the University and beyond. Outstanding students are honored annually at the Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement (CLDE) Breakfast at the end of each Spring semester.
Outstanding Senior Award
The Outstanding Senior Award is an annual award presented to two graduating undergraduate students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, campus leadership, and community service. This prestigious award, sponsored by the Associated Students of the University of Βι¶ΉΣ³» (ASUN), includes a $500 prize and is presented at the "Honor the Best" ceremony each spring. To be eligible, students must be graduating in the following academic year between the academic year of August, December and May with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, be in good standing with the university, and have shown involvement that has positively impacted the university or the community. Applicants are required to submit a 500-1,000-word essay detailing their leadership and service activities, along with a resume that highlights relevant experiences and achievements. Submissions are due in the first week of March.
Richard & Bonnie Bryan Family Public Service Award
Richard & Bonnie Bryan Family Public Service Award is an annual award for undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional civic engagement through public service at the Βι¶ΉΣ³». Established in 2017, the award honors the legacy of Senator Richard Bryan and his late wife, Bonnie, who were both dedicated to public service and community impact. The award celebrates the student's leadership and significant contributions to their community through various public service pathways. To be eligible, students must be in good academic standing and have an outstanding record of civic engagement and public service. The winner will receive $1,000. Submissions are due at the end of March.
Silver Paw Award
The Silver Paw Award is a recognition program aimed at honoring students or student groups who exemplify the ideals of civic engagement. Award recipients, selected monthly during the academic year, receive a personalized certificate and have their accomplishments shared through campus media. The award highlights various forms of civic engagement, such as volunteerism, community service, philanthropy, activism, and service learning. Nominees are evaluated based on their civic knowledge, skills, values, and motivation, demonstrating a sustained commitment to community impact and leadership in addressing civic challenges. Submissions are made all year round.
100 Hours
The 100 Hours Award recognizes students who complete 100 hours of community service within one calendar year, with all hours tracked and documented through their UNR.GivePulse.com profile. To participate, students must join GivePulse and log their service hours on the platform. Upon completing the 100 hours, students will receive a certificate, and their achievements will be celebrated through university publicity channels. All service hours must be verified on GivePulse, the university’s official volunteer platform. Hours are counted by April.
200 Hours Award
The 200 Hours Award recognizes students who complete 200 hours of community service within one calendar year, with all hours tracked and documented through their UNR.GivePulse.com profile. To participate, students must join GivePulse and log their service hours on the platform. Upon completing the 200 hours, students will receive a certificate from Βι¶ΉΣ³» Volunteers, signed by the Governor of Βι¶ΉΣ³», and their achievements will be highlighted through university publicity channels. Hours are counted by April.
Annual Civic Engagement Recognition Breakfast
The annual Civic Learning and Democratic Engagement (CLDE) breakfast, hosted by the Center for Student Engagement at the Βι¶ΉΣ³», celebrates individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to civic life. This event honors students, faculty, elected officials, and community partners who demonstrate exceptional commitment to democratic values, public service, and community involvement, recognizing their impactful efforts in fostering civic engagement.