Distinguished Alumni Award

The Distinguished Alumni Award is based on long-term outstanding achievements and service or contributions to Black Hills State University.

• A person need not be a graduate of Black Hills State University, but must have attended for at least one year.
• A nominee must have graduated or be out of school for at least 10 years.
• A nominee is not eligible if he/she is running for a public office.

Special Service Award

The Special Service Award is given to honor those alumni or other persons who have contributed long-term service or exceptional effort in a single program or project to Black Hills State University.

• A person need not be a graduate of Black Hills State University.
• May be an employee or former employee of Black Hills State University or community member.
• A nominee is not eligible if he/she is running for a public office.

Excellence in Education Award

The Excellence in Education Award honors those alumni who have made outstanding contributions in the field of education.

• A person must have received a teaching certificate or degree from Spearfish Normal School, Black Hills Teachers College, Black Hills State College, or Black Hills State University.
• There are no particular time restrictions surrounding nominees in order to be considered.
• A nominee is not eligible if he/she is running for a public office.

Young Alumni Achievement Award

The Young Alumni Achievement Award honors alumni who have attended BHSU within the last ten years, and who have distinguished themselves with outstanding achievements, contributions and service to society, the community and Black Hills State University.

• A person need not be a graduate of Black Hills State University, but must have attended for at least one year within the last ten years.
• A nominee is not eligible if he/she is running for a public office.

Spirit of BH Award

The Spirit of BH Award is awarded to an outstanding student of Black Hills State University who is honored each spring during the annual volunteer awards banquet. This award honors a student who has made significant contributions that reflect favorably on the university and larger community.

• Student must have completed a minimum of 96 semester hours and maintained a minimum grade point average of 2.5 prior to January of the current year.
• Student must also have made a significant contribution to at least one campus organization and/or one community organization or project throughout his or her college career.