Kansas State University Amethyst Award

The Amethyst Award recognizes extraordinary contribution of individuals who personify Kansas State University’s mission of advancing the well-being of Kansas, the nation, and the international community. The Amethyst Award is the most prestigious award granted by Kansas State University and it honors an individual who has rendered great lifetime service, who goes above and beyond in their daily lives to serve Kansas State University, its faculty, staff, students, and mission. This person possesses a deep responsibility for extraordinary acts of leadership.

Kansas State University alumni, faculty, staff, administrators, students, student organizations, and friends may nominate individuals they believe are worthy of the Amethyst Award.

Amethyst Award nominees must exemplify the following qualities and characteristics:

Be affiliated with Kansas State University, though they do not need to be students or alumni. K-State faculty and staff are also eligible.
Reflect the best of K-State pride by supporting the university’s mission of excellence in teaching, research, and service that develop a highly skilled and educated citizenry.
Have an outstanding record of service and philanthropy, including contributions of financial support, time, or talent.
Have a strong history of dedication and service to Kansas State University.

In addition, all nominees must have:

An official nomination submitted by a member of the Kansas State University community. Self-nominations are not accepted.

Nomination materials should include the following:

Career, vocation, or life pursuits, including activities that contributed to a successful career; publications in journals, magazines, or books; and awards or recognitions for outstanding service and achievement.
Connection to Kansas State University, including specific activities that strengthened ties to K-State, improved the quality of education, or supported the university through task forces, boards, committees, groups, or other services.
International, national, regional, state, and/or local pursuits, which render service.
Leadership roles that positively affected others.
Other meaningful causes or diverse activities that demonstrate achievement and distinction in the community or within the scope of the university.
CV or resume.
Two reference letters.

To be recognized at spring commencement, nominations must be submitted by February 1, 2029. The Amethyst Award is given when an individual meets the unique qualifications established in the award guidelines. This award will be awarded every three years at the discretion of the President’s Office.

Nomination Form

Nomination can be made online through www.k-state.com/amethystaward .

If you have questions regarding the award and process, please contact:

Krystin Guggisberg
Associate Director of alumni awards and engagement
kguggisberg@k-state.com