Alumni Awards

The Department of Industrial & Enterprise Systems Engineering recognizes and honors ISE alumni, faculty and friends who have achieved notable accomplishments in the realms of professionalism, technical expertise, education or service. These achievements not only distinguish the individuals themselves but also bring distinction to the department and the university as a whole. 

Award Descriptions

ISE Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award

The ISE Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award is the highest distinction bestowed upon Industrial & Enterprise Systems Engineering alumni. It recognizes extraordinary professional success, transformational leadership, and influence that have significantly advanced industry, academia or government. More than one recipient may be selected each year.

Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate:

• Outstanding and sustained professional success with a distinguished career trajectory.
• Transformational leadership and influence in industry, academia or public service.
• Contributions that have shaped their field through innovation, thought leadership or groundbreaking advancements.
• Recognition at a national or global level through honors, awards or professional accolades.
• Service, mentorship or leadership that positively impacts ISE, the University of Illinois, their profession and their communities.
• Advocacy and leadership that strengthen education, diversity, workforce development or public service.
• Philanthropy or social responsibility that advances meaningful change in engineering, innovation or broader societal issues.

ISE Young Alumni Excellence Award

This award honors graduates within 15 years of earning their degree who have demonstrated exceptional early-career success and a commitment to making a lasting impact in their field, their community, and beyond.

Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate:

• Significant professional achievements showing leadership, innovation or rapid career advancement.
• Impact beyond the workplace, including contributions to professional organizations, mentorship or community engagement.
• Commitment to service, diversity or workforce development, fostering opportunities for others in engineering and related fields.
• Entrepreneurial spirit or pioneering work that advances industry, research or technology for broader societal benefit.

ISE Alumni Excellence in Academia

(Awarded biennially)

This award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the development and mission of the Department of Industrial & Enterprise Systems Engineering through professional achievements, superior teaching and research, and dedicated service.

Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate:

• Commitment to the academic, professional and personal success of students and alumni.
• Excellence in research or creative academic activity.
• Significant contributions to academic leadership, curriculum development or mentorship