Alumni Awards

Honoring alumni whose contributions enhance the University at the local, state, national or international levels, the annual Vanguard University Alumni Awards highlight how Vanguard graduates are impacting the world.

Meet PAST alumni award winners

Nominate for the 40th Annual Alumni Awards!

Know someone who is deserving of an honor? Nominate them for an award! Winners will be recognized during the 40th Annual Alumni Awards celebration in the spring. 

Nomination period closes at 11:59 pm on Tuesday, November 3.

Alumnus of the Year

The Alumnus of the Year Award is presented to an alumna or alumnus whose accomplishments and/or contributions enhance the University at the local, state, national or international levels.

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduated from Vanguard
  • Attended two years
  • Completed a minimum of 48 units
  • Is a recognized leader in their field
  • Supports Vanguard 
  • Received their first Vanguard degree 15 or more years ago

Young Alumnus of the Year

The Young Alumnus of the Year Award is presented to an alumna or alumnus whose accomplishments or contributions enhance the University at the local, state, national or international levels.

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduated from Vanguard
  • Attended two years
  • Completed a minimum of 48 units
  • Has a record of professional or extra-professional activities that advance their field, or contributes their time, talent or financial resources to benefit Vanguard
  • Supports Vanguard
  • Received their first Vanguard degree within the past 20 years and are 45 years old or younger

Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an alumna, alumnus or group of alumni who develops, implements or participates in a program, event or special outreach effort that contributes to improving the lives of others and recognizes unselfish and extensive service to the community and to humankind.

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduated from the University
  • Attended Vanguard for at least 12 units
  • Contributed exceptional service to their communities
  • Served as a volunteer or through professional involvement
  • Are a Vanguard supporter, former or present faculty member, staff member or administrator

Hero to Vanguard Award

The Vanguard Alumni Association – Hero to Vanguard Award is awarded to a member of the alumni association whose dedication as a first responder during the 2020 pandemic year.  Because of their commitment to the health and wellbeing of others, and their dedication of serving their community, it is an honor for the Vanguard Alumni Association to honor them.

Recognizes alumni whose remarkable accomplishments speak well for the range and quality of a Vanguard education.

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • Graduated from the University
  • Attended Vanguard for at least 12 units
  • Contributed exceptional service as a first responder in a time of crisis

Champion of Vanguard Award

The Vanguard Alumni Association – Champion of Vanguard recognizes a non-alumnus for their outstanding volunteer efforts on behalf of the university.  This award is given in honor of those whose lives and work have been beacons of exemplary Christian service.  The energy, dedication and enthusiasm of the recipient epitomize the spirit of service that is vital to Vanguard’s growth and leadership.  

Nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • A non-alumnus who has made significant contributions towards Vanguard’s welfare and reputation
  • Dedication to service and philanthropy that has greatly impacted Vanguard University

Questions? Contact Us
Heather Clements
Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement
714.966.5445
hclements@vanguard.edu