Senior Awards

Geography department faculty and staff identify several seniors per year to receive special awards in recognition of their many contributions to the undergraduate geography program.

National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) Outstanding Student Award

This award is the department’s highest honor and should go to the student who we, as a department, feel is the top graduating senior majoring in Geography. The award is typically given to the student with the highest GPA or who demonstrates superior academic achievement.

Maximum number of awardees: 1

Preston E. James Award for Excellence
Awarded to students who show meritorious scholarship as demonstrated by an excellent senior thesis, external recognition of work (such as university awards or presentations of work at conferences), exceptional coursework, and, when relevant, special considerations such as personal obstacles overcome in pursuing their studies. Awardees typically have GPAs of 3.5 or higher.
Maximum number of awardees: 2

George B. Cressey Award

Awarded to meritorious students (GPA 3.2 or higher) who integrate academic excellence with other pursuits, including leadership, community service, arts, and athletics. This award recognizes students who are actively involved outside of the classroom.

Maximum number of awardees: 2

Geography Faculty Award for Excellence

Awarded to students who have demonstrated excellent departmental citizenship. This student actively and enthusiastically participates in departmental activities and events. No minimum GPA is required.

Maximum number of awardees: 1