Established in 2018, the Cultural Vistas Alumni Awards are presented annually to recognize outstanding exchange program alumni who exemplify the mission of Cultural Vistas.
As part of our 2021 Virtual Awards Benefit, we will honor alumni who demonstrate a commitment to community building by strengthening democracy, building inclusiveness, or contributing to a vibrant civil society at home and abroad.
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This year, the Cultural Vistas Alumni Council is pleased to offer awards in the following categories:
The Distinguished Alumni Leadership Award is the highest honor bestowed upon Cultural Vistas alumni. The award recognizes former participants of Cultural Vistas exchange programs who have attained distinction in their chosen field and demonstrated leadership in strengthening democracy.
The Alumni Impact Award recognizes an individual for their contributions to the global community. This award further illustrates the greater value of international exchange beyond the duration of one's formal program. The award recognizes alumni who champion democracy as integral to their efforts to use global skills to solve local issues in their community.
Nominations must be submitted by August 31, 2021. All nominees will be considered for both award categories.
Awards winners will be announced in September and recognized at Cultural Vistas' Virtual Awards Benefit in October.
Award Criteria
The nomination committee will evaluate nominations based on the following criteria:
- Demonstrates outstanding leadership and contributions within their field
- Exemplifies commitment to the mission of Cultural Vistas and its alumni communities
- Has successfully integrated their exchange experience into their professional pursuits
- Connects the value of global engagement to their work
- Has made meaningful contributions to foster and advance international understanding and collaboration.
Eligibility
- Must have participated in a professional exchange program administered by Cultural Vistas, including its predecessor organizations
- Cannot currently be employees of Cultural Vistas or on its Board of Directors
- Must be able to provide remarks at the virtual awards benefit in October (date TBA in June.)
Commitment
Nominees seeking recognition will be expected to perform the following if awarded:
- Coordinate alumni engagement in their local region
- Provide a video testimonial
- Serve as a member of a Cultural Vistas Alumni Taskforce: a one-year commitment of two to three virtual meetings
Previous Awardees
2018
Gayle Tzemach Lemmon - 2018 Distinguished Alumni Recipient
Bruce Marsh - 2018 Alumni Impact Recipient
2019
Alaina Percival - 2019 Distinguished Alumni Recipient
Aushim Merchant - 2019 Alumni Impact Recipient
2020
Dr. Linda Lopez - 2020 Distinguished Alumni Leadership
Cherrie Atilano - 2020 Alumni Impact
Isoa Nabainivalu - 2020 Alumni Impact