Each year, American University recognizes the exceptional achievements of outstanding faculty, staff, graduating students, and alumni through University Awards. There are four categories of these university-wide awards:

• University Student Awards, which honor graduating students for outstanding achievements in scholarship, student, and community service;
• University Faculty Awards, including Scholar/Teacher of the Year and honors for teaching, scholarship, service, and community engagement;
• University Staff Awards, for meritorious staff achievement;
• American University Alumni Awards, the highest honors presented by the AU Alumni association.

The nomination process for University Awards opens in January.

Outstanding students also have opportunities throughout their AU careers to be recognized for their achievements – including Academic Achievement Awards and school and college honors.