For tickets, tables, and sponsorships please visit www.nicholls.edu/nichollsgala/
A Special Thank You to Our Nicholls State University Gala
& Awards for Excellence Sponsors!
Red Sponsors
Grey Sponsors
Awards for Excellence Descriptions and Criteria
James Lynn Powell Award
Harvey Peltier Award
The Harvey Peltier Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a non-graduate of Nicholls State University. This prestigious award recognizes individuals whose outstanding achievements, contributions, and support have significantly benefited both the University and the broader community.
Eligibility & Nomination Process
- Nominations may be submitted by the University President, Vice Presidents, Deans, Department Heads, Alumni Federation Board members, or previous Harvey Peltier Award recipients, or dues paying Alumni Federation members.
- Each nomination must include a detailed letter of recommendation and the nominee’s resume for consideration.
Award Criteria
Nominees must meet the following qualifications:
- Excellence in Their Chosen Field: Demonstrated exceptional achievement and leadership within their professional endeavors.
- Service to the University and Community: Significant contributions that have supported the mission of Nicholls State University and enriched the community.
- Support for the Alumni Federation: Active engagement and meaningful contributions to the success and growth of the Alumni Federation.
The Harvey Peltier Award honors those whose dedication to excellence and service exemplifies the values of Nicholls State University and serves as an inspiration to others.
Honorary Alumni Award
The Honorary Alumni Award recognizes non-graduates of Nicholls State University who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and a special interest in the University through their time and contributions.
Eligibility & Nomination Process
- Nominations may be submitted by the University President, Vice Presidents, Deans, Department Heads, Alumni Federation Board members, or dues paying Alumni Federation members.
- Nominations must be presented in letter form detailing the nominee’s contributions and connection to Nicholls State University.
Award Criteria
- Dedication to Nicholls State University: Nominees must be non-graduates who have given their time generously and shown a deep commitment to the mission and success of the University.
This award honors individuals whose unwavering support and engagement have left a lasting impact on the Nicholls community.
Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award
The greatness of a university is reflected in the achievements of its alumni. To honor exceptional former students and their accomplishments, the Nicholls State University Alumni Federation established the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award in celebration of the University’s 75th anniversary in 2024.
Purpose
This award recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions to society while exemplifying the legacy of excellence and Colonel Pride. Recipients demonstrate the transformative power of the Nicholls experience through their impact on Louisiana, the nation, and the world.
Criteria for Selection
Recipients are selected based on accomplishments in the following areas, which align with Nicholls’ core values:
- Professional Achievement: Prominence in their career or military service, with a record of accomplishments in fields such as business, technology, education, government, the arts, or science.
- Service to Society: Dedication to bettering lives through integrity, volunteerism, and community engagement.
- Support to Nicholls: Demonstrated pride in their alma mater through active support of the University, the Alumni Federation, and related programs.
Eligibility
Nominees must have completed at least 12 hours of regular courses at Nicholls. Current employees of Nicholls or the Alumni Federation, as well as Alumni Federation Board members, are ineligible during their service or employment.
Distinguished Young Alumni of the Year Award
The achievements of its alumni are the truest measure of a university’s greatness. In celebration of its 75th anniversary in 2023, Nicholls State University and the Alumni Federation established the Distinguished Young Alumni of the Year Award to honor outstanding graduates and their accomplishments.
Purpose
This award recognizes emerging professionals and community leaders who embody the values and legacy of Nicholls State University. Recipients are selected for excelling in their professions, serving their communities, and demonstrating unwavering pride and loyalty to Nicholls.
Criteria for Selection
Nominees must reflect Nicholls’ core values—Civic Responsibility, Diversity, Excellence, Integrity, Leadership, Respectfulness, and Responsibility—through accomplishments in the following areas:
- Professional Achievement: Demonstrated success and distinction in career or military service across various fields, including business, technology, arts, sciences, education, or government.
- Service to Society: Integrity and a commitment to improving lives through volunteerism and community engagement.
- Support to Nicholls: Pride in alma mater through active involvement and support of the University, the Alumni Federation, and their programs.
Eligibility
Nominees must have graduated from Nicholls State University within the last 15 years and completed at least 12 hours of regular coursework. Current employees of Nicholls or the Alumni Federation, as well as Alumni Federation Board members, are ineligible during their service or employment.
