The College of Education and Health Professions recognizes the extraordinary accomplishments of its alumni every year for their impact around the world through research, teaching, leadership and public service.

The college is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Alumni Awards to honor graduates who have made significant contributions to their profession, community and the advancement of education and health professions.

Faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the college are invited to nominate graduates from the college in five award categories now through Sunday, Oct. 19.

"We look forward to reviewing these nominations every year. It's so inspiring to see how our alumni are uplifting lives and leading with care," said Dean Kate Mamiseishvili. "I can't wait to learn more about this year's outstanding alums who represent the values and mission of our college."

Whether they have influenced the next generation of educators, health and wellness professionals, or made advancements in their respective fields, the college wants to hear about their achievements.

The five award categories are:

Distinguished Career in Education Award
Awarded to a graduate of the college who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievement and extraordinary distinction in the area of education.

Distinguished Career in Health Award
Awarded to a graduate of the college who has demonstrated exceptional professional achievement and extraordinary distinction in the field of health and wellness.

Distinguished Public Service Award
Awarded to a graduate of the college who has fostered a caring culture and improved people's lives through civic engagement, community service and volunteer efforts.

Emerging Leader in Education Award
Awarded to a graduate of the college who has demonstrated early career distinction and shows promise for future professional success in the area of education.

Emerging Leader in Health Award
Awarded to a graduate of the college who has demonstrated early career distinction and shows promise for future professional success in the field of health and wellness.

A nomination form is available online. Nominators are asked to provide a statement that illustrates why the nominee is deserving of the award and upload at least one supporting document.

The Alumni Awards Committee, composed of alumni and members of the college's Dean's Executive Advisory Board, will recommend award recipients to the dean. Nominations are kept in a pool for two years. In March 2026, the winners will be recognized at the college's annual spring banquet. Alumni award winners from the college's six departments will also be honored at the event.

Contact Managing Director of Development Tracee Norris at traceen@uark.edu for more information.

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About the College of Education and Health Professions: The College of Education and Health Professions prepares students for a wide range of careers in education and health. The college comprises approximately 360 faculty and staff members, serving more than 6,000 students and supporting six departments and over 25 research and service units. Driven by the WE CARE strategic plan, the college strives to advance impactful research, foster a caring culture, and expand service to Arkansas through transformative educational opportunities and meaningful partnerships. The college boasts an extensive research portfolio that is accompanied by multiple large-scale, prestigious grants secured by faculty and staff. Over the past five years, the college has received over $115 million in external funding.