Karen Udoh (left) and Onu Udoh (right)

Graduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award

This university-wide award honors and recognizes graduate students who use their

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Khushboo Patel received the 2024 Graduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award.
Khusboo Patel was the 2024 Inclusive Excellence Award recipient.

 voices, research and actions to cultivate a more equitable and just campus, body of research, field of study and community. This prestigious award honors those who go above and beyond in their commitment to inclusive excellence. 

The winner will receive an award of $500 from the Graduate School. 

All nominees will receive an honorable mention certificate. Awards will be announced at the Graduate Dean’s Reception. 

Nomination Process 

UofL faculty/units and staff may nominate students. There is no limit to the number of nominees that faculty/units or staff may submit. Students may also self-nominate. 

Each nomination should include a detailed summary, resume or CV, letter of support and additional documentation as needed.  

Selection Criteria 

Applications will be evaluated on the following: 

  • Graduate Student Experience – efforts to create a more inclusive campus environment that supports the academic growth and sense of belonging of all graduate students 
  • Research and Scholarship – identifies inequities, creates access within and beyond the academy, and addresses the concerns and needs of marginalized communities 
  • Work-Related Responsibilities – promotes inclusive excellence as a part of or in addition to major job responsibilities  
  • Personal Endeavors – participates in community service, mentorship, etc. that facilitate diversity and equity, cross-cultural interactions, and community building.  

Application materials can be related to mentoring, advising, teaching, outreach, research activities, hiring & recruitment, department climate, retention, reducing systemic barriers, developing equitable policies – anything that promotes inclusive excellence.