Indiana University - Awards

Awards

Indiana University has three medals to recognize individuals.

• The University Medal, the only IU medal that requires approval from the Board of Trustees, was created in 1982 by then IU President John W. Ryan and is the highest award bestowed by the University. It honors individuals for singular or noteworthy contributions, including service to the university and achievement in arts, letters, science and law. The first recipient was Thomas T. Solley, former director of the IU Art Museum.
• President's Medal for Excellence, a reproduction in fine silver of the symbolic jewel of office worn by the president at ceremonial occasions, is rich in meaning. The first recipients were member of the Beaux Arts Trio on September 20, 1985. It honors individuals for distinction in public service, service to Indiana University, achievement in a profession, and/or extraordinary merit and achievement in the arts, humanities, science, education, and industry.
• Thomas Hart Benton Mural Medallion "recognizes individuals who are shining examples of the values of IU and the universal academic community." President Ryan was the first to award this honor. It was first awarded to the president of Nanjing University on July 21, 1986. It honors individuals for distinction in public office or service, a significant relationship to Indiana University or Indiana, significant service to IU programs, students, or faculty, significant contribution to research or support for research.

Indiana University has a number of ways to recognize the accomplishments of faculty.

• Distinguished Professorships - Indiana University's most prestigious academic appointment
• University Distinguished Teaching Awards - recognizing "shining examples of dedication and excellence"
• Thomas Ehrlich Award for Excellence in Service Learning - recognizing excellence in service learning. The recipient is also the IU nominee for the national Campus Compact Thomas Ehrlich Award for Service Learning.