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On August 4, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (the System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.

 

Celebrating Award Recipients

Each year, the University honors students, alumni, faculty, staff, and student organizations whose academic achievements, leadership, service, innovation, and professional accomplishments have made a meaningful impact on the University and the communities they serve.

Awards are presented during Commencement following a competitive review process.

2027 Application Timeline

  • September 2026: Application period opens
  • February 1, 2027: Application deadline
  • February - March 2027: Committee review
  • April 1, 2027: Recipients notified
  • June 2027: Awards presented during Commencement

Browse awards by category below. Each award page includes eligibility requirements, selection criteria, required materials, and important application information.

Not Sure Which Award is Right for You?

You may be eligible for more than one University award. Review each award's eligibility requirements and application materials to determine which opportunities best reflect your accomplishments.

Questions About University Awards?

Our University Events & Recognition Team is happy to help with questions about:

  • Eligibility
  • Award selection
  • Application requirements
  • Nomination process
  • General award information

Email us at universityawards@apus.edu.

 

Excellence in Teaching Award

The Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes faculty members who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to student learning through outstanding instruction, innovation, and academic excellence.

Effective teaching extends beyond delivering course content. It inspires curiosity, fosters meaningful engagement, encourages critical thinking, and empowers students to achieve their academic and professional goals. This award celebrates educators who create exceptional learning experiences while exemplifying the mission and values of American Military University (AMU).

To recognize excellence across the University, one recipient for undergraduate teaching and one recipient for graduate teaching are selected within each academic school.

The University intends to present these awards annually during Commencement Weekend. However, if no application within a category sufficiently meets the established criteria, an award may not be presented in that category.

Apply Now

Applicants must:

  • Be a current part-time or full-time faculty member at AMU.
  • Be actively teaching undergraduate or graduate courses during the award eligibility period.
  • Demonstrate excellence in teaching through sustained instructional effectiveness, student engagement, and a commitment to student success.
  • Model professionalism, academic integrity, and the mission and values of the University.
  • Be in good standing with the University.

Eligible individuals may apply directly, or an application may be submitted on their behalf by a faculty member, staff member, student, alum, supervisor or another individual familiar with their accomplishments.

A complete application must include:

  • A completed application form.
  • A current curriculum vitae (CV), including scholarly publications.
  • Evidence of the applicant’s interaction with students, such as assignments, individualized feedback or discussion responses.
  • Evidence of a classroom innovation, including a before-and-after analysis demonstrating the effect of the change.
  • Evidence of how the applicant helped a student succeed in a course or supported student retention.
  • Evidence of support for the University mission, such as helping others form meaningful connections, contributing to course development or demonstrating compassion, flexibility and professional support.
  • A teaching philosophy submitted as a written narrative of no more than 250 words or a video of no more than two minutes.
  • A statement of support from the applicant’s Department Chair, Associate Dean or Dean.
  • Optional supporting documentation that strengthens the application, such as peer observations, student feedback, instructional materials, presentations, publications or teaching awards.

All application materials must be submitted by the published deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Applications are reviewed by the Academic Awards Committee using established evaluation criteria.

The committee evaluates applicants based on:

  • Excellence in teaching and instructional effectiveness.
  • Positive impact on student learning and success.
  • Innovation and creativity in instructional practices.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement and professional growth.
  • Mentorship, accessibility, and student engagement.
  • Alignment with the mission and values of AMU.

Following the Academic Awards Committee's review, one recipient for undergraduate teaching and one recipient for graduate teaching within each academic school are recommended to the University Provost for final approval.

  • Applications Open: September 1, 2026
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2027
  • Committee Review: February–March 2027
  • Recipient Notified by: April 1, 2027
  • Recognition: Commencement Weekend 2027
Apply Now

Recipients receive:

  • Recognition during Commencement weekend.
  • A crystal trophy.
  • Travel and hotel accommodations in accordance with University award guidelines.
  • Recognition in University communications.

Attendance at Commencement is encouraged but not required.

Questions regarding eligibility or the application process may be directed to the University Awards Committee at universityawards@apus.edu.