Penn GSE's Alumni Award Program

Sponsored by the EAA, the Alumni Award Program is a celebration of both- alumni and other education professionals for outstanding service to Penn GSE and to the field of education at large. 

The Penn GSE Educator of the Year Award

This award recognizes an outstanding graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, preferably of the Graduate School of Education, who demonstrates unusual involvement in and commitment to identifying and helping to resolve school problems and current issues in education. The recipient of this award must be a dedicated educator who is an inspiration, risk-taker, innovator, and role model, while demonstrating a commitment to the betterment of the Graduate School of Education. 

The Helen C. Bailey Award

This award recognizes an outstanding education alumnus or alumna of the University of Pennsylvania who has brought recognition and status to the Graduate School of Education or the University of Pennsylvania and who has made a distinctive contribution to the field of education and to the Graduate School of Education. 

The William B. Castetter Alumni Award of Merit

This award recognizes an alumnus or alumna of the Graduate School of Education for significant service to the School. The contribution to GSE must be extraordinary and voluntary. 

The National Award of Distinction

This award recognizes a person of national or international reputation making an outstanding contribution in the field of education. Nominations are made to the Awards Committee and final selection is made by the EAA Board of Directors. The National Award of Distinction is traditionally presented at the annual Spring Forum at GSE. 

The Ethel and Allen "Buddy" Carruth Sustained Leadership in Education Award

Established in 2004, this award recognizes significant service to the education community by an esteemed alumnus/a or friend of the Penn Graduate School of Education. The award honors the memory of Ethel Carruth, ED'43, a distinguished alumna, benefactor and friend of the Penn Graduate School of Education. Mrs. Carruth and her late husband, Allen Carruth, led an extraordinary legacy, fostering enthused dedication and support of numerous causes, inspiring benevolence and a lifetime of involvement. Their support of education impacted many in the field and motivated unprecedented achievement and guidance throughout the community. The recipient of this award will serve as an inspiration to others, transcending expectations and providing opportunities in service. 

The Penn GSE Alumni Recent Alumni/Early Career Award of Merit

This award signifies outstanding service to the University of Pennsylvania and Graduate School of Education prior to one's 10th reunion year by setting an inspirational example for future alumni at the Penn GSE. This includes significant contributions by an individual in their field of endeavor, whether through professional achievement or community service by devoting significant amount of time, energy, and enthusiasm to volunteerism and cultivation. This individual support supports and embodies the mission, values, and goals of the Penn GSE community.

To nominate a candidate, download the pdf nomination form by clicking here.

To review past winners, click here.