Nominations are open for Athabasca University’s 2026 Alumni Awards!
AU is a university like no other, improving the lives of learners through our teaching, research, and impact, from local to global, in place and in digital space.
AU’s students and alumni are like no other, having experienced the access, opportunity, and community this university provides. They’re blazing trails in their respective fields, making their highest contribution to improve themselves and the lives of everybody around them—in AU’s home community of Athabasca, around Alberta, across Canada, and beyond.
Each year, we give alumni awards to five of these outstanding AU ambassadors who are living their lives out loud and providing hope, inspiration, and encouragement.
You can nominate alumni (or a current learner) in five categories:
- The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes the accomplishments of an AU graduate who brings honour and prestige to the university.
- The Rising Star Award recognizes an AU graduate who has demonstrated leadership and significant contributions to an area of expertise early in his or her career.
- The Volunteer Service Award recognizes an AU graduate who has demonstrated a spirit of volunteerism and community service through active, unpaid involvement in and contributions to his or her community.
- The Future Alumni Award recognizes the leadership, service and potential of a current AU student who has completed a minimum of 15 course credits at AU.
- The Lifelong Learner Award recognizes an AU learner who seeks to expand their knowledge and skills through continuous learning.
Get inspired by our 2025 winners
Need a little inspiration? Look no further than the 2025 Alumni Award winners, who are making their mark through inspiring advocacy, tireless volunteerism, and their dedication to lifelong learning.
Nominations are open until March 31, 2026.
Nominate someone for an Alumni Award!
This is your chance to shine a spotlight on alumni who inspire, lead, and make a difference in their communities. All AU graduates are eligible with the exception of serving politicians, serving AU Board of Governors members, or those employed by Athabasca University. Students with 15 course credits or more are eligible for the Future Alumni Award. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Nominations are open until March 31, 2026.