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2025 Rising Star Award

  • The 2025 Rising Star Awards will be presented at the Homecoming Gala on October 17, 2025.
  • Nominations are taken year-round
  • August 1, 2025 is the deadline for inclusion in the 2025 Rising Star Awards.

This award recognize our most inspiring alumni who have reached significant achievements in their professional career, voluntary service and/or civic involvement. The candidate must fit the following criteria:

 Criteria for Eligibility

  • The nominee must be a graduate of East Central University.
  • Nominations may be made by any individual or group, self-nominations will not be considered.
  • Nominations of individuals not selected will be held and considered “active” for two (2) consecutive years (the first year of nomination and one subsequent year).
  • Nominators are encouraged to update nomination packets prior to the nomination deadline, each year the nomination is considered active.
  • Individuals may be re-nominated at any time.
  • Award may be withdrawn by the selection committee for any cause which reflects poorly upon the University.
  • Note: Individuals for the ECU Rising Star Award must be under 40 on January 1 of the award year.

Criteria for Selection

  • Professional prominence with noteworthy accomplishments.
  • Career advancement, responsibility, and leadership.
  • Level of significant impact within specific industry at the local, regional, national and/or international level.
  • Demonstrated service or future potential to serve as a volunteer, donor, and/or advocate for the University.
  • Nominee must be in good standing with the University.

 online form