LEADERSHIP AWARDS NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED!
Student Leadership Awards Nominations will open again Fall 2025.
Thank you for a successful 2025 cycle! Read about the 2025 Ceremony
here.
and leading individuals toward collective impact—whether in formal positions or through independent initiative.
Each year we recognize students who have made a positive impact at UC Merced and beyond.
Spring 2025 Leadership Awards
Awards fall into two categories: those that allow self-nominations and those requiring nomination by others.
Review the guidelines, then select an award below to start a nomination.
Click here for Application Questions & Guidelines
Distinguished Leadership Award
Recognizes exceptional leadership among undergraduate students in the past academic year.
Self-Nomination: Yes
Carol Tomlinson-Keasey Award
Celebrates academic excellence and leadership among graduating undergraduate or graduate students.
Self-Nomination: No
Legacy Award
Honors a graduating student who embodies UC Merced's Principles of Community.
Self-Nomination: Yes
Steven & Mia Kang Award
Recognizes leadership in social change, equity, and justice on campus or in the community.
Self-Nomination: No
Margo F. Souza Trailblazer Award
Honors innovation, vision, and new programs or initiatives that enrich campus life.
Self-Nomination: No
Emerging Leader Award
Recognizes first-year and first-year transfer students with strong leadership potential.
Self-Nomination: Yes
Community Partner Impact Award
Honors a community partner who collaborates with UC Merced to address community challenges.
Self-Nomination: No
College Corps Fellow Award
Recognizes a Fellow showing dedication, service, and strong support for their community.
Self-Nomination: Yes
Deadline to Submit Nominations: TBD
Winners and nominees will be invited to the Leadership Award Ceremony on
Friday, April 25 at 4 PM at UC Merced.
If you have any questions, contact the Margo F. Souza Student Leadership Center at
lead@ucmerced.edu or visit KL 172.
