Call for Nominations: Honorary Doctorate Awardees and Distinguished Alumni

Announced on: Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026

Each year, Chico State has the distinct privilege of honoring individuals whose lives and accomplishments embody the values of our University. Two of the most significant recognitions we bestow are the Distinguished Alumni Awards and honorary doctorates. These honors celebrate outstanding individuals with meaningful connections to Chico State and amplify the University's reputation, visibility, and engagement.

To ensure a broad and inclusive nomination process, members of the campus community are invited to submit nominations for both awards. All nominations are confidential. Please do not inform nominees of any submissions.

Honorary Doctorates

• Nomination Deadline: October 30, 2026
• Awarded by the CSU Board of Trustees, honorary doctorates recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in fields such as education, the arts, sciences, public service, philanthropy, or business. Nominees should have made notable contributions to society, higher education, or the CSU, and embody values aligned with our mission.
• Honorary Doctorate Nomination Form and Additional Details
• A campus selection committee will review submissions and recommend finalists to President Perez for consideration. Final decisions are made by the CSU Board of Trustees, and degrees are typically conferred at Commencement.
• Please reach out to Ashley Gebb in the Office of the President if you have any questions.
  
  Distinguished Alumni
• Nomination Deadline: November 13, 2026
• Since 1994, the Chico State Alumni Association has recognized alumni whose achievements in their vocations and communities bring distinction to our institution. Honorees serve as role models and collaborators, helping advance our academic mission and inspire current and future Wildcats.
• Distinguished Alumni Nomination Form and Additional Details
• Nominations will be shared with the deans of each college, who will recommend candidates to President Perez for final selection. Awardees will be celebrated at the 2027 Distinguished Alumni Awards in March.
• Please reach out to Shari Anderson in Alumni Engagement if you have any questions.

Final honorees for both awards will be publicly announced in spring 2027.