Presidential Awards

People who rise to the top do so through hard work, commitment and excellence. And there is a special group of those people who make it a point to lift up others. Their success is defined by service and a generosity of spirit. They lead by example and have a lasting impact in whatever they do.

Presidential awards are bestowed by the president of the university and honor those who have not only elevated themselves, but also the people around them, the communities in which they live, the industries in which they work and the organizations that they serve. In doing so, they bring honor to UNT as a member of the university family. The president gives these awards to students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and community members to recognize the highest levels of achievement, excellence and service. View the list of Presidential Award recipients.

Presidential Medal of Honor

This exclusive award, given by the president, honors those who have gone above and beyond to support UNT and its mission. It is the highest presidential honor given to an individual. The president selects the recipients and presents the awards as the occasion arises.

President’s Citation

The President’s Citation is given to individuals who have given extraordinary service and support to UNT either in enhancing the university’s reputation or in helping the university to accomplish its mission. The president selects the recipients and presents the awards as the occasion arises.

Honorary Degrees

UNT awards Honorary Degrees to individuals who, by their extraordinary achievements, add substantial knowledge to or better society as a whole. A special certificate and the degree is awarded to recipients as the occasion arises.

UNT Community Award

The UNT Community Award honors a student, faculty or staff member for outstanding service that has enriched the UNT experience for the UNT community. This service goes above and beyond the nominee’s expected duties or job responsibilities and is characterized by consistent and meaningful involvement in the campus community with servant-leadership. This award will be presented at the Staff Appreciation Luncheon or Salute to Faculty Excellence event depending on the respective recipient. Fill out the nomination form.

President's Special Recognition Award

The UNT President's Special Recognition Award honors an extraordinary student, faculty or staff member (or group) who has contributed momentous and unique talent or service to the university, resulting in infectious UNT pride. It's given when no usual award or recognition is available because of the unique quality of the contributions. This award will be presented at the Staff Appreciation Luncheon or Salute to Faculty Excellence event depending on the respective recipient. Fill out the nomination form.

Bob Rogers Service and Community Engagement Award

The Bob Rogers Service and Community Engagement Award honors the late Bob Rogers, who bridged the UNT and North Texas communities through engagement, volunteerism, and his gift of musical talent and piano performance. The award recognizes a faculty member, staff member, or student whose talent, dedication, passion, and community service strengthen both UNT and the greater community and help maintain strong bonds between them. A defining characteristic of the recipient is a genuine attitude of selfless service, kindness, and joy, qualities Bob embodied throughout his life. This award will be presented at the Staff Appreciation Luncheon or Salute to Faculty Excellence event depending on the respective recipient. Fill out the nomination form.

The nomination window for 2027 is open from Nov. 5 through Dec. 2.