The School of Science and Engineering established the Vanguard Awards to recognize exceptional alumni and friends of the school. The awards acknowledge professional accomplishments, service to the community and university and commitment to STEM education in the Kansas City region. Honorees are recognized at a reception and presented with their award.

Nominations are due on November 1st for consideration for the 2025 Vanguard Awards.

Vanguard Awards Nominations Form

Award Categories

Young Alumni 

Presented to alumni under 40 years old who have demonstrated success in these ways.

• Professional accomplishments
• Service to society and/or community
• Service to the alumnus/a’s professional field
• Support of School of Science and Engineering
• Other distinguished activities

Company or Organization of the Year

Presented to a company or organization that has demonstrated exemplary support for the School of Science and Engineering in these ways.

• Direct support for scholarships and other fundraising priorities
• Hiring of interns or graduates from the School
• Engaged in professional development opportunities for current students
• Initiated and offered continuing education opportunities for their employees through partnership with the School
• Other areas of involvement including competition team sponsorship, student mentorship, etc.

Supporter

Presented to an individual who has demonstrate exemplary support for the School of Science and Engineering in these ways. Nominee does not have to be an alumnus.

• Direct support for scholarships and other fundraising priorities
• Hiring of interns or graduates from the school
• Mentoring or volunteering
• Engaged in professional development opportunities for current students
• Other areas of involvement including competition team sponsorship, student mentorship, etc.

STEM Outreach Partner of the Year

Presented to an individual, organization or company that has demonstrated exemplary support for K-12 STEM initiatives in these ways.

• Mentoring or volunteering
• Participation in or hosting events
• Program partnerships
• Direct support of fundraising priorities

Vanguard Awards Nominations Form