Pathfinder Award
The Pathfinder Award recognizes the remarkable accomplishments of Western Colorado University’s young alumni. This award honors graduates from the past 10 years who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, leadership, or service early in their careers. Pathfinders embody the spirit of innovation, resilience, and dedication that define Western alumni and serve as role models for the next generation.
Members of the Alumni Advisory Council review all nominations and select honorees. Each nomination highlights an extraordinary young alum, and the selection process is always challenging. To make the best decisions, Council members must have complete and specific information. Ultimately, the strongest nominations are those that provide detailed examples of how the nominee meets the award criteria.
The criteria for the award include:
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Professional and/or Academic Accomplishments: Demonstrates exceptional achievement and recognition in their field of work or advanced studies (i.e., pursuing graduate school/PhD programs/professional degrees).
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Leadership: Inspires others through initiative, innovation, and influence within their profession, community, or beyond.
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Philanthropy: Shows generosity and commitment to making a difference through charitable giving, volunteerism, or mentorship.
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Service to Community: Enhances the lives of others through active participation, advocacy, and civic engagement.
Eligibility:
Nominees must have earned a degree from Western Colorado University within the past 10 years.
Submission Process:
Nominations will only be accepted via the online form. Nominators will address each of the award criteria individually in a maximum of 500 words each. An additional 500 words may be used to share other information relevant to the nomination. We recommend drafting responses in Word before pasting them into the form.
Not every section must be completed for a nominee to be considered; however, nominators are encouraged to provide information for as many criteria as possible. The Alumni Advisory Council takes all submitted details into account, and thorough responses strengthen the nomination.
Nominations will be accepted until November 14, 2025, at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. No late submissions will be accepted.
Questions? Contact Megan West, Director of Alumni Relations, at 970.943.2493 or mwest@western.edu.