The Spring Staff Awards recognize the many contributions of university staff to Vanderbilt’s core goals and mission. The winners of each award will be announced at the sixth annual Spring Staff Assembly on Wednesday, May 20.
During this year’s Spring Staff Assembly, longtime university awards, including the Commodore Award and the Excellence in Culture Award, will be presented along with newer awards, such as the Vanderbilt Early Impact Award and the One Vanderbilt Excellence Award.
Nomination process:
Nominations can be submitted by staff, students, faculty or postdoctoral scholars using the online nomination form through Friday, Feb. 27.
Once submitted, a select group of representative staff members from various divisions review the nominations for consideration.
Please see the staff awards website for nomination guidelines and award amounts.
The 2026 Spring Staff Awards are:
Vanderbilt Early Impact Award
This award goes to a full-time staff member who has worked at Vanderbilt University for a minimum of one year and less than five years and has exhibited excellent performance that shows promise of future growth in their field. This individual exemplifies professionalism and has made significant contributions as a junior staff member at Vanderbilt.
Nominate a colleague for the Vanderbilt Early Impact Award. >>
Mentorship Excellence Award
This award goes to a full-time staff member who serves as a role model by inspiring colleagues and promoting professional development. This individual demonstrates excellence in mentorship, fosters greater individual contributions and/or greater team cooperation and embodies Vanderbilt University’s mission, goals and values.
Nominate a colleague for the Mentorship Excellence Award. >>
One Vanderbilt Excellence Award
This award goes to a staff team, department and/or group that has demonstrated collaborative excellence on behalf of the university community. The team has worked across the university on a project, significant effort or initiative that advances Vanderbilt’s mission.
Nominate a team for the One Vanderbilt Excellence Award. >>
Excellence in Culture Award
This award goes to a full-time exempt and a nonexempt staff member who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to strengthening a positive and productive workplace culture at Vanderbilt University. These individuals consistently model the university’s values, foster radical collaboration and accountability, and contribute to an environment where colleagues feel supported, respected and motivated to do their best work.
Nominate a colleague for the Excellence in Culture Award. >>
Commodore Award
This award goes to full-time regular staff members who have made significant contributions to Vanderbilt University’s pursuit of excellence in education, research and community service. One award is presented to hourly staff and one to salaried staff.
Nominate a colleague for the Commodore Award. >>
The Spring Staff Assembly is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20. More details will be announced soon.
Get more information about the spring awards and details of the full nomination criteria or submit nominations at the Staff Awards webpage.
