This award honors an individual whose professional achievements exemplify sustained leadership and service as a dedicated advocate for gender justice at Grand Valley State University. The recipient will have demonstrated visionary leadership, serving as a passionate advocate, inspiring role model, and supportive mentor to women and others committed to advancing gender equity. Through their impactful engagement with university policies and systems, they will have significantly shaped the landscape of women’s and gender issues on campus, setting a standard of excellence and leaving an enduring legacy.

As such, these awards are not given on a regular annual schedule but are carefully selected when meritorious candidates emerge whose contributions and impact genuinely reflect the highest standards of excellence and commitment to gender justice.