Human Resources
  1. UH Home
  2. Human Resources
  3. Employees
  4. Employee Recognition Program
  5. President's Excellence Awards

Human Resources

President's Excellence Awards

Nominations for the 2026 President's Excellence Awards Are Now Open!

Every year the University of Houston proudly recognizes staff members whose service, leadership, innovation, and dedication advance the University's mission and strengthen the UH community. Through the President's Excellence Awards, UH celebrates employees whose contributions create a lasting and meaningful impact across the institution.

Among these distinguished honors is the Charles F. McElhinney Distinguished Service Award, the highest staff recognition awarded by the University.

Key Dates

Nominations Open: August 3, 2026

Nomination Deadline: August 14, 2026

Awards Ceremony: September 23, 2026

Award Categories


President's Excellence Awards

Awarded during a ceremony held by the President, the President's Excellence Awards are given each year in the following categories:

  • Administrative Support Excellence (3 Awards)

  • Technical, Service & Skilled Trades Excellence (3 Awards)

  • Professional Excellence (3 Awards)

  • Leadership Excellence (3 Awards)

Distinguished Service Award

  • Charles F. McElhinney Distinguished Service Award (1 Award)

 

Recognition


Award recipients may receive:

  • Official University recognition

  • Engraved award or commemorative plaque

  • Certificate signed by the President

  • Monetary award (subject to University policy and available funding)

  • Recognition during the annual awards ceremony

  • Recognition through University communications and publications

 

Who Can Nominate?


Faculty, staff, students, and community members may nominate an eligible University of Houston staff employee.

Self-nominations are not accepted.

Quick Start


New to the Awards Process?

  • Review Eligibility Requirements

  • Review Award Criteria

  • Learn the Nomination Process

  • Complete a Nomination Form

  • Submit Recommendation Forms

Helpful Resources

  • View the Award Category Position Examples (Be sure to submit your nominee under the category in which they are eligible to be nominated. Note that the examples are not the only positions that fall under each category. The list serves as a reference for where different roles fall under the different award categories.)

  • View the McElhinney Award Eligibility List (Previous President’s Excellence Award winners who have been with the University for at least 15 years are eligible for nomination.)

Important: All Nomination and Recommendation Forms must be submitted by the published deadline.