Golden Apple trophy on table.

Awards

Each homecoming weekend, the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University acknowledges alumni for their accomplishments and dedication to their chosen field.

2024 Awards and Recognition Ceremony
Friday of Homecoming Weekend, details to come!
 
 

2024 Award Winners

Man

Trey Conner

—B.S.'11, Health and Physical Education
Dr. Leadriane Roby

Dr. Leadriane Roby

—Ph.D.'12, Educational Leadership
Don Thompson

Dr. Donald E. Thompson

—B.A.'68 English; M.A.'71 Educational Leadership; Ed.D.'73 Educational Leadership

The Golden Apple Award is given to honor two outstanding individuals who graduated from the College of Education and Human Development at Western Michigan University and are presently working or retired from the many professions involved in the educational experience. The individuals will be personally selected by their peers as being representative of educational excellence and commitment. Learn more.

The Keystone Early Career Award is designed to recognize one graduate who has achieved substantial professional growth and advancement within the last ten years in their chosen profession in the field of human development. Learn more.

The Keystone Meritorious Achievement Award recognizes one graduate (graduation year must be at least 10 years prior to nomination year) who has demonstrated outstanding professional achievements and distinction in the field of human development. Learn more.

The CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award is one of the University's highest alumni awards and is given to alumni who bring distinction to their alma mater through professional achievements and who have enjoyed a high level of success in their careers. Learn more.

NOMINATION PROCESS

Golden Apple and Keystone Awards

Nominations for the Golden Apple and Keystone Awards can be made by anyone. However, individuals may not nominate themselves. Nominations must include:

  1. Nomination form
  2. One sponsoring letter—this should include a personal anecdote telling why this individual has been chosen and why the nominee meets award criteria
  3. One supporting letter of recommendation—this should include a personal anecdote telling why this individual has been chosen and why the nominee meets award criteria

CEHD Outstanding Alumni Award

  • Nominees must have at least one degree from the College of Education and Human Development at WMU.
  • Preference will be given to past recipients of CEHD Alumni Awards (Golden Apple, Keystone, HPHE Alumni Academy, CECP and FCS Awards). Strong justification should be provided for nominees who are not past recipients of CEHD alumni awards.
  • Nominees must have achieved a high level of success within their chosen field of endeavor, which is exemplified by having attained increasingly responsible positions, and have been recognized by their peers.
  • Preference will be given to nominees who have participated in community activities as well as activities supporting WMU and have given distinguished service to their profession, to WMU, and/or to their community.
  • Award recipient is expected to engage in college-related events during Homecoming week. These events will vary based on recipients interests. 

Nomination materials

  • Completed nomination form
  • Nomination letter
  • Minimum one supporting letter