About the Awards

In the years since they were first presented in 2008, the Tufts Distinction Awards have become a valued tradition. The President’s Office and Human Resources together sponsor this university-wide program to celebrate outstanding staff and faculty accomplishments outside of teaching and research. “Advancing Tufts’ academic mission calls on the very best talents of all our faculty, staff, and students,” says President Anthony P. Monaco. “The Distinction Awards are one important way we recognize exceptional contributions to this shared endeavor. I welcome the opportunity to honor individuals and teams who do so much for Tufts.”

For an introduction to the spirit behind the awards, watch a video from the first two years of the program, featuring reflections by then-President Bacow.

Eligibility

All Tufts University staff and faculty who are benefits-eligible can be nominated for a Distinction Award. Nominees must have successfully completed their probationary period. Only people directly employed by Tufts University are eligible. This means that temporary workers and those employed by outside contractors are not eligible. Members of the staff and faculty who are serving on the Selection Committee for this year’s awards, as well as members of the university’s Academic Council*, are also ineligible. In addition, individuals and teams are not eligible to win in consecutive years.

*The Academic Council is comprised of the President, the Provost, the Executive Vice President, the Vice Provost and Associate Provosts, the Deans of the Schools and Tisch College, the Director of the HNRCA, the Vice Presidents, and the Chief of Staff in the President’s Office.

Award Description

In addition to being recognized at the Distinction Awards celebration, individual winners and members of winning teams receive a cash award.