As the university's most prestigious event, the Torch Awards serves as a beacon, lighting the way for young alumni and setting an inspiring example to work toward. The alumni selected as award recipients represent FIU's finest - they are our torchbearers. The nomination forms supplied by the FIU Alumni Association must be fully completed, and if multiple nominations are received for the same individual, the most complete one will be selected for review. Deans and University Leadership can make up to 4 nominations. Self or external nominations will not be accepted.
Award Categories
At next year’s Torch Awards Reception, five Distinguished Alumni Achievement Awards will be presented.
Distinguished Alumni Award
Presented to alumni who have brought honor and distinction to the university through their notable record of service and achievement in a particular discipline, organization or cause.
Nominating Criteria
- Recipients MUST be present to receive the award. The award may not be conferred in absentia; however, it may be granted posthumously. Must have graduated in good standing from FIU.
- Demonstrates distinguished professional achievement, leadership and/or service to FIU or the larger community.
- Made significant contribution and/or have advanced his/her profession through practice, research, education and/or administration.
- Must not be involved in any current legal investigation or proceeding.
- Cannot be actively running for public office.
- Must be living at the time the nomination is submitted.
- Must not be a previous Torch Award recipient.
- Must have made a philanthropic gift to the university.
Conferring of Award
Submission of this nomination form does not guarantee selection.
- A University-wide selection committee comprised of senior University and volunteer leadership has been established to select the 5 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award honorees to present to the President for final approval.
- Torch Awards will be presented at the Torch Awards Reception by the president of Florida International University, the executive director of FIU Alumni and/or the president of the FIU Alumni Board of Directors.
- The person(s) responsible for submitting the nomination, family and friends of the recipients are encouraged to attend the awards reception.