Poet Award Nomination Form

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The Poet Awards are a special opportunity for alumni to honor and uplift one another—celebrating peers whose lives and work reflect the spirit, values, and legacy of Whittier College.

Presented by the Office of Alumni Relations and the Alumni Association Board, these awards recognize the extraordinary impact Poets make in their communities, careers, and in service to Whittier.

Let’s celebrate the Poets who make a difference — in their communities, in their careers, and right here at Whittier.

This year’s honorees will be recognized at a reception celebration during Homecoming weekend on Friday evening, October 10, 2025.

Poet Award Categories

Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award (undergrad and graduate program) 
Honors undergraduate and graduate alumni who have achieved exceptional distinction in their careers or academic fields, demonstrating leadership, innovation, and meaningful impact. 

Emerging Leader Award 
Celebrates alumni within 10 years of graduation who have shown early-career excellence, leadership, or entrepreneurial success, with strong potential for continued impact. 

Poet Impact Award 
Honors alumni with a long-standing record of loyalty, volunteerism, and philanthropic support that has significantly benefited Whittier College. 

Honorary Alumni Award 
Presented to individuals who did not attend Whittier but who have made exceptional contributions to the College, enhancing the alumni experience and community life.