Homecoming and Alumni Service Awards

Celebrating the accomplishments of alumni around the globe, these awards honor individuals who embody what it means to be a Mountaineer. If you or someone you know embodies the Mountaineer spirit, take a moment to submit a nomination through these links:

The Outstanding Alumni Award

The highest Homecoming honor, the Outstanding Alumni award is presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated significant loyalty and commitment to advancing the interests of WVU.

Submit Nomination Past Recipients

Homecoming Parade Marshal

As part of the annual Homecoming festivities, the WVU Alumni Association selects a noteworthy alum to serve as Homecoming parade marshal. 

The David W. Jacobs Lifetime Service Award

Recognizing a WVU graduate for lifelong service to their alma mater, this award was named for David Wood Jacobs who served as director of the Alumni Association for more than 37 years.

The Margaret Buchanan Cole Young Alumni Award

Named for Margaret Buchanan Cole, founder of WVU’s Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and first woman to serve as president of the Alumni Association, this award honors a WVU alum who graduated within the last 10 years and has provided outstanding service to their alma mater.

The James R. McCartney Community Service Award

The James R. McCartney Community Service Award recognizes a WVU graduate who has given outstanding citizenship and service to their community.

The Paul B. “Buck” Martin Award

This award recognizes a graduate who has worked to preserve, maintain and promote the traditions of WVU. The award was named for Buck Martin who served as president of the Alumni Association and was the former editor of The Martinsburg Journal and noted WVU historian.

The John F. Nicholas Jr. Award

This award recognizes a WVU graduate who has given outstanding service and contributions to a geographic chapter, special interest or school/college alumni group. The award is named in memory of Nicholas, a distinguished WVU alumnus and former chapter leader in the Washington, D.C., metro area.