NACUBO Awards

Each year, we recognize individual and institutional excellence and achievement in higher education business and finance with NACUBO Awards.

The program was established to identify and encourage individual and institutional excellence in college and university business and financial management, promote active participation in NACUBO’s programs and services, identify individual and institutional role models, and contribute to a positive perception of the business officer profession.

Kara Freeman, president and CEO presents Joanne DeStefano, executive vice president and chief financial officer at Cornell University (retired) with the 2023 Distinguished Business Officer award.

Help Us Recognize Excellence. Nominate Your Colleagues.

NACUBO is currently accepting nominations for the following awards:

Daniel D. Robinson Accounting Award. This award recognizes leadership and continuous commitment to college and university accounting and reporting and will be recognized during the 2023 Higher Education Accounting Forum. Awards will be presented at the Higher Education Accounting Forum (April 28-30 | Atlanta). Nominations deadline is February 28, 2024.

Online Nomination Form

Student Financial Services Award. To recognize individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to the higher education community, NACUBO's advocacy efforts, and educational programs and publications in the area of student financial services. Awards will be presented at the Student Financial Services Conference (March 17-19 | Las Vegas). Nominations deadline is January 12, 2024.

Online Nomination Form

Board-Selected Awards

John D. Walda Pathfinder Award

NACUBO's highest honor, the John D. Walda Pathfinder Award, is selected by board officers periodically. This award was created in 2012 to honor individuals “whose lives and careers in higher education business management are inspirations to college and university business officers.” Learn more about previous recipients of this award here.