The College of Engineering Graduate Student Association (CEGSA) is pleased to announce that nominations for the 2026 CEGSA Gala Engineering Graduate Awards are now open.

These awards recognize outstanding contributions within the College of Engineering community, including excellence in graduate mentorship, teaching, research, administrative support, and leadership in graduate education.

Below you will find information regarding the award categories and nomination process. Nominations are open to members of the University of Missouri Columbia College of Engineering community, including graduate students, faculty, and staff, depending on the award category.

We encourage members of the College of Engineering community to participate by recognizing individuals who have made meaningful contributions to graduate education, mentorship, research, and student success.

Nomination Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by midnight on 03/20/2026.

Award recipients will be notified by email prior to the event and will be recognized during the CEGSA Engineering Graduate Gala on April 4, 2026.

To submit a nomination, please complete the nomination form using the link below:

Awards nomination link

Distinguished Director of Graduate Studies Award

This award recognizes the most outstanding Director of Graduate Studies across all departments for exceptional leadership and dedication to graduate education. The recipient demonstrates excellence in overseeing graduate program operations, leading graduate admissions and recruitment, advising and supporting graduate students, and coordinating with faculty and the graduate school to ensure academic quality and student success. This award honors a DGS who fosters a strong graduate community and continuously works to enhance the graduate student experience.

Eligibility:

• Current Director of Graduate Studies within the College of Engineering.

Excellence in Graduate Administrative Support Award

This award recognizes an administrative staff member who has provided exceptional support to graduate students and contributed significantly to the success of graduate programs. The recipient demonstrates professionalism, dedication, and a strong commitment to assisting students and faculty while ensuring smooth program operations and creating a welcoming environment that enhances the graduate student experience.

Eligibility:

• Administrative staff member who supports graduate programs in the College of Engineering.

Graduate Alumni Excellence Award

This award recognizes a distinguished College of Engineering alumnus who has demonstrated excellence in leadership in their professional/academic career. The recipient has made notable contributions through innovative ventures, successful startups, or executive leadership roles such as CEO, CSO, or founder. This award celebrates alumni who continue to make meaningful impacts in industry, academia, technology, and society.

Eligibility:

• Alumni of the College of Engineering with demonstrated professional leadership and innovation.

Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award (6 Awards)

This award recognizes one faculty advisor or supervisor from each department who has demonstrated outstanding mentorship, guidance, and support for graduate students’ academic, research, and professional development. Recipients foster a supportive mentoring environment, encourage academic excellence, and play a significant role in helping students achieve their research goals and career aspirations.

Eligibility:

• Faculty member in the College of Engineering who actively mentors graduate students.

Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant Award (6 Awards)

This award recognizes graduate students who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, instructional leadership, and dedication to student learning. Recipients contribute significantly to undergraduate education through effective teaching practices, mentorship, and clear communication while creating engaging learning environments that support student success.

Eligibility:

• Current graduate student serving as a Teaching Assistant in the College of Engineering.

Outstanding Graduate Researcher Award (6 Awards)

This award recognizes graduate students who have made exceptional research contributions and demonstrated innovation and impact in their field of engineering. Recipients show strong commitment to advancing knowledge through high-quality research, scholarly activities, collaboration, and contributions that positively influence their discipline.

Eligibility:

• Current graduate student in the College of Engineering demonstrating excellence in research.