Faculty Service Award

The Faculty Service Award recognizes full-time faculty whose extraordinary and creative voluntary service has contributed significantly to the University’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Recognized activities may include substantial service on a university-wide or school-wide diversity/equity committee and/or development/implementation of DEI programming that impacts Columbia and its neighbors (i.e. anti-racist initiatives, pipeline programs, community service programs, etc.). 

Selection Process

The selection process begins with an open nominations period when any member of the Columbia University faculty can nominate an eligible faculty member using the form below. Nominations are due by January 31, 2021.

2021 Faculty Service Award Nomination Form

The Selection Committee reviews all nominations, requests dossiers for a pool of finalists they wish to consider for the award, and ultimately chooses up to five winners to recommend to the Provost.

Eligibility requirements

  • Full-time faculty members with an official academic appointment are eligible to be nominated.
  • Barnard and Teachers College faculty, visiting faculty and campus-level administrators (e.g., in the offices of the President and Provost, deans or department chairs) are not eligible for this award.
  • Nominees should have engaged in volunteer service activities that impacted faculty and/or students, including activities that benefit underrepresented groups (e.g., scholarship, community engagement and/or student mentorship).  
  • Service activities can be at the program, department/unit, college, or university level.
  • This award is bestowed as a once in a lifetime achievement. Past winners are not eligible to receive a second award.

Selection Criteria

  • A demonstrated, sustained commitment to DEI-focused service activities 
  • A record of innovative and impactful service
  • A history of consistent University service
  • Strength of letters of support from school/department/unit leadership


If you have questions about the Faculty Service Award, please contact the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement at facultyadvancement@columbia.edu