Do you know a University of Colorado leader who has participated in the Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP)? Consider recognizing the leadership and contributions of an ELP alumnus by submitting a nomination for the Excellence in Leadership Award.

All ELP alumni currently working at the University of Colorado are eligible to be nominated through Nov. 25. Self-nominations will not be accepted.

About the award

This year, Excellence in Leadership Award nominee qualifications have been clarified as follows.

Nominees should display excellence in the following areas:

1. Exceptional Leadership: Demonstrates exceptional leadership by thoughtfully strategizing, motivating teams and achieving measurable results while consistently aligning actions with the University of Colorado system's mission, vision and values. Effectively manages resources and stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency and advance strategic goals. Additionally, their leadership creates an environment where CU community members have a sense of belonging, feel valued and are empowered to meaningfully contribute to the mission of CU.
2. Impactful Contributions: Leads projects, programs or research endeavors that have significant and measurable impacts on the University of Colorado system and/or respective campus community, evidenced by quantifiable metrics and recognition.
3. Community Engagement: Actively participates in initiatives, activities or partnerships that contribute to positive community outcomes and strengthens the University of Colorado system and/or respective campus’ mission and reputation.

Past winners

The Excellence in Leadership Award has honored exceptional leaders in the CU community since 2009. Most recently, the award was given to Colorado School of Public Health Dean Cathy Bradley, Distinguished Professor Ruth Ellen Kocher from CU Boulder and former Dean of Leeds Business School Sharon Matusik.

See a complete list of winners on the Excellence in Leadership Luncheon webpage.

The award recipient will be recognized at the Excellence in Leadership Luncheon and Lecture on April 10, 2026.

Nominate a leader today

• Visit the ELP nomination page to access the nomination form, instructions, criteria and a list of eligible alumni.
• Nominations will be accepted from any University of Colorado employee who has worked or is working with the nominee. The supervisor of the nominee should support the nomination and be included in the submission process.
• The deadline for submitting a nomination is 5 p.m. (MT) Friday, Nov. 25.

 If you have questions, please contact elp@cu.edu.