Leadership Recognition Ceremony

The Leadership Cabinet produces the annual Leadership Ceremony at the end of the spring semester. This special night recognizes student leaders who have made a difference at the University of New Orleans. The night consists of an address from the University President, the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, and other special guests. Highlights of the evening include the presentation of the student recognition awards, organization of the year, advisor of the year, and the Burks Award. There are usually about 300 in attendance at the Leadership Ceremony including family and friends. Organizations submit pictures and the Leadership Cabinet produces a presentation to music that captures a year in review of organization events.

Below are short descriptions of all the awards that the UNO community may nominate fellow students and advisors for their leadership excellence and extensive involvement.

Student Leader Recognition

Organizations and departments on campus may select up to two individuals to be recognized. Their names are also printed in the program and they come on stage to receive a certificate presented to them by the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

Organization of the Year

Organizations self-nominate themselves by filling out the appropriate form and writing a summary explaining why they think they should be Organization of the Year. Committees made up of UNO student leaders, faculty, and staff review the nominations and select the recipient.

Advisor of the Year

Organizations nominate their advisors and also write a summary regarding their advisor. UNO student leaders, faculty, and staff review these nomination forms and select the winners. The decisions are confidential until announced at the ceremony.

Dr. Polly Guthrie Service Award

This award is open to any University of New Orleans student who has an outstanding dedication to volunteerism. Any UNO student, faculty, or staff may nominate a UNO student for this award. Committees comprised of UNO student leaders, faculty, and staff review the nominations and select the recipient.

Organization President of the Year

Organizations or advisors can nominate their registered student organization's president for this award. Nominators explain the presidents' dedication and service to the organization and to the University of New Orleans. Nominations are reviewed by committees made up of UNO student leaders, faculty, and staff.

Outstanding Event of the Year

Any UNO student, faculty, or staff member may nominate any registered student organization's event for this award, describing the ways in which the event accomplished its goals, the event's planning process, and the success of the event. Nominations for this award are also reviewed by committees made up of student leaders, faculty, and staff.

Edgar E. Burks Award

This is the most prestigious student leadership award a student can receive at the University of New Orleans. The award is named after Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Edgar E. Burks, who passed away in 1984. Students are recommended for this award by faculty and staff, and a committee of student leaders, faculty, and staff selects the winner.