I am pleased to announce the launch of the 2016 University Awards process, which celebrates the continued dedication, hard work, and outstanding service of AU's graduating students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

As in previous years, the student, faculty, and staff awardees will receive a cash prize:

• $250 to $1,000 for student awards
• $750 to $1,000 for staff awards (not to exceed $5,000 for a group award)
• $2,000 to $5,000 for faculty awards

Last year, we added a new staff award, the Maria Bueno Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes staff members who dedicate 25 or more years to AU in an administrative, front line, or service position and has a monetary award of $1,000. Detailed information on the awards, selection criteria, deadlines, and access to nomination forms is on the University Awards website.

The commitment and hard work of all members of the community is essential to improving AU, and we want to recognize those persons whose actions enable us to fulfill our mission.