Regents’ Award for Distinguished Public Service

In June of 1990, the Regents supported a recommendation of the Senate Advisory Committee on University Affairs (SACUA) and established the “Regents’ Award for Distinguished Public Service.” The Regents’ Award for Distinguished Public Service seeks to publicize and reward the commitment to public service demonstrated by members of the University Senate.

The public service activities will relate closely to teaching, research, and other scholarly activities that reflect the candidate’s professional and academic expertise. Meritorious activities will demonstrate benefit to society beyond one’s own career demands, and direct interaction with individuals outside the University is highly encouraged. Examples of the kinds of activities to be considered are

1. a principal role in the development of important public policy;
2. noteworthy service on expert or advisory committees, task forces or boards of directors;
3. integration of scholarly activities directly into public constituencies, especially those in under-represented groups;
4. a continuous / consistent presence as a member invested in reciprocal collaboration with an outside community;
5. co-creation with community members and groups at large in the development of knowledge, creative projects, and scholarship.

All members of the University Senate are eligible for consideration.

Please submit nomination materials at the Faculty Senate awards nomination page. The deadline for the 2026 award cycle is May 6, 2026.

• A nomination letter describing the nominee’s work and contributions to public service and details of any accomplishments related to that service. (Required)
• Nominee’s CV (Required)
• Supporting statements (optional)

Nomination Eligibility Duration: Nominees are eligible for three years: the current year and, if not selected, they will also be automatically included in the pool of candidates for the next two award cycles.

If you have any questions about the award or the nomination process, please contact the Faculty Senate Office at facultysenateoffice@umich.edu or at 734-764-0303. Thank you for your participation.