OPEN CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE SPARK AWARD
About the Spark Award
To begin in OMA&D’s 55th year, this new recognition award will formally acknowledge another community member whose diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership inspires young changemakers, and exemplifies the spirit of the Charles E. Odegaard award. It will recognize the accomplishments of a recent UW graduate, who made significant DEI contributions during their time as a University of Washington student and continues to do so post-graduation.
Submission Timeline
July 14, 2023 – Open call for nominations
EXTENDED | October 9, 2023 – Deadline for nominations
November 1, 2023 – Recipient selected
May 15, 2024 – Inaugural recipient recognized at Celebration 2024
Who can submit a nomination?
Any person, both internal and external to the University of Washington may submit a nomination for any other person that meets the nomination criteria below. Self-nominations are not permitted. There is no limit on the number of nominations a person may submit.
Spark Award nomination criteria
Nominees must meet all criteria to be considered.
- Graduated from the University of Washington in the past 10 years.
- Formally connected to OMA&D as a student.
- DEI leadership/advocacy/activism as a UW student, especially within organizations affiliated with the Kelly Ethnic Cultural Center and/or social justice related organizations.
- Continued DEI leadership/advocacy/activism work in communities locally, regionally, and/or nationally post-graduation.
Selection Process
A subcommittee of the FEOP Board will review nomination materials and select three nominees to be moved forward to the full board. The full board will select the award recipient. The recipient will be notified by December 15, 2023, after selection.