The Morris Lehman Mayer Award is given to one student in the graduating class and one faculty member.

Students who believe they are qualified are strongly encouraged to apply. Students, faculty and staff are also welcome to submit nominations for individuals they feel are qualified to be considered for the award.

Recipients will receive a monetary award and special recognition at a campus wide awards banquet in February. There will also be a Mayer family banquet in May.

If you have questions, please email vlgiattina@ua.edu.

Criteria

Student

Students may be nominated or may submit an application.

  • Current senior (graduating this academic year)
  • GPA of 3.3 or higher and in good judicial standing
  • Exemplifies the life of Morris L. Mayer: selfless and significant service and leadership for the U of A community, significant contributions to student life, and integrity.

Faculty

Faculty must be nominated for this award.

  • Member of teaching faculty
  • Professor Mayer’s career exemplified the importance of enriching the undergraduate student experience; therefrom, priority should be given to faculty candidates with extensive service in this area.

Letters

Recommended length (double spaced) for nomination/reference letters is 2-3 pages double spaced.

Application/Nomination Process

The nomination period opens on September 1st. The deadline for nominations is 11:59 p.m. on November 1.

The application period opens on September 1st. The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. on November 15.

Please note, all portions of the student application, including the letter of reference, are due by the November 15 deadline. Applicants should note that their reference cannot submit their letter of recommendation until after the application is submitted; applicants should submit their application with enough time for recommenders to submit their letter before the deadline. Students can only apply for one of the Premier Awards. After a nomination is received, the individual being nominated will receive a request to complete the award application by the November 15 deadline. Your application/nomination information will be saved for 2-3 days if you need to complete it at a later time. Be sure to utilize the same browser and computer to complete your application/nomination.

Student Applications

Any student that meets the criteria may apply. You may only apply for one award. The application must be filled out in one sitting and you will need to make sure your reference is aware so that they have time to complete their portion of the application (letter of reference attachment). Please have the following ready before starting the application:

  • Resume
  • Award Specified Essay
    • The essay (3-5 pages double spaced) should include your definition of “community and civic service.” Your discussion of your significant contributions to the quality of life of the student community should also be included.
  • Letter of Reference Name and Email
  • Anticipated graduation date and plans for post-graduation (this will be a short answer question)

If you are applying on or near the deadline, it is heavily advised to make sure your reference knows their portion of the application (letter of reference attachment) is due by 11:59 p.m. on November 15.

Student Application

Faculty Nominations

Faculty, staff, and students may make faculty nominations. Please complete the nomination form. You may nominate an individual for one award only. Please note that students who are nominated will be directed to complete the remaining application portion. Faculty that are nominated will be directed to submit a resume. It is recommended that you notify anyone that you are nominating so that they can be ready to submit the required materials.

Nomination Form