Who is Eligible:  Individual (adult or youth), business, and non-profit organization
Nominations can be submitted by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the Tri-State community at-large.

In a 1968 sermon, Dr. King said, "If you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice. Say that I was a drum major for peace. I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the other shallow things will not matter.” 

The “Drum Major” award recognizes an individual or group who demonstrates a commitment to and engages in equity and inclusion efforts in the community. This individual/group has made significant contributions in improving access and opportunity for all by dismantling barriers through putting into place policies, programs, or initiatives to enhance opportunity and success for all people. 

Who is Eligible:  Currently enrolled OHIO undergraduate and secondary high school (grades 9-12) student 
Nominations can be submitted by students, faculty, staff, alumni, secondary school district personnel.
The Emerging Leader Award recognizes a currently enrolled OHIO undergraduate and a secondary student (grades 9-12) who demonstrate a deep commitment to creating positive change in their campus, secondary school district, or community. Recipients must be in good academic standing and not be in violation of any university or secondary school district code of conduct standards.
To be considered, nominator should address the following:
    •    What sets this student apart from their peers? Why is this student committed and passionate about this work?
    •    Provide evidence of the impact the student’s work is having on the community. How is it resulting in positive change?
    •    Describe what it is that the student is committed to and how they are going about their commitment. How is this work addressing an issue on a deeper level? How are they addressing the root cause? 

The Emerging Leader Award is presented in memory of Dr. Charles Jarrett. In his 33-year tenure with Ohio University, Dr. Jarrett was guided by a deeply held belief in equality and dignity for all people. His life exemplified a powerful commitment to improving the quality of life in the Tri-State region, especially for young people.

Who is Eligible:  OHIO University Southern graduate
Nominations can be submitted by students, faculty, staff, and alumni of OHIO University.
The Alumni Humanitarian Award is presented to an OHIO alumnus or alumna who, embodies the spirit of volunteerism and sense of community. Alumni are nominated for this award for demonstrating honesty, dignity for others, integrity, responsibility, and promoting the common good; and through voluntary service or a chosen profession, have made a significant contribution of leadership or service which has had influence on the well-being of others. 

Who is Eligible:  Adult, youth, or a business/organizationNominations can be submitted by students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the Tri-State community at-large.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?”   In this quote by Dr. King he understands that leaders are motivated by creating a positive change in the lives of others. The Beloved Community Service Award celebrates the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as demonstrated through caring, compassion, understanding, and tolerance for all people. 
The Community Service Awards recognizes extraordinary contributions of an adult, youth, or a business/organization impacting the community through voluntary community service. Nominations should include individuals or organizations who have made significant contributions to the community through programs and activities that help revitalize our community and make it a more desirable place to live. The selection panel will consider special qualities demonstrated by the nominee and the nominee’s resourcefulness while performing community service. The frequency of the activity as well as the length of service will also be considered.