Established in 1987, OFIC’s Hall of Excellence Award honors distinguished alumni from its member institutions.
Annually, each member campus is invited to nominate one alum for consideration. OFIC selects an inductee to the Hall of Excellence based on professional achievement, societal impact through service and leadership, and dedication to their alma mater, reflecting the value of their independent college education.
Hall of Excellence
Celebrating Excellence
In 1987, OFIC initiated the Hall of Excellence to honor outstanding alumni of its member campuses. Each year, OFIC member colleges and universities are invited to nominate an alumna or alumnus to be considered for induction into The Hall of Excellence.
Inductees are chosen by OFIC based on the criteria of professional achievement; impact on society through service, leadership, scholarship, diversity, inclusion, and equity efforts; sciences, research, arts or elected office; and, service to alma mater. Each of these achievements underscores the value, success, and impact of an independent college education.
Nominations Open for the 2026 Hall of Excellence
Submission Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026
The nominee must be an alumna/alumnus of your institution and meet at least one of the following criteria:
Exemplifies the value of a independent education in any field of study
Has demonstrated service to their college or university
Has received past recognition within their profession or field of service
Has impacted the lives of many through achievement in service, leadership, scholarship, social justice, sciences, research, arts or elected office
Has become distinguished by attaining a high level of achievement, whether early in or throughout their career
Guidelines for Nomination
Nomination request to be sent to the president, chief advancement officer and chief marketing contact.
Nomination package from our member institutions must consist of:
Letter from the campus president including:
How has your nominee demonstrated commitment to independent higher education (fundraising, advocacy, student engagement, volunteerism, trusteeship, or other demonstrated service)?
What have been your nominee’s achievements in a professional career or field of service (scholarship, research, arts, sciences, social justice, elected positions, awards, honors, or publications)?
What has contributed to the attainment of your nominee’s leadership position in their field of service (visionary, critical thinker, advocate, pioneer)?
Nominee’s one-page biography
Nominee’s high-resolution photo
Nomination Process
Nominations will be reviewed by OFIC and one honoree and up to two alternates will be selected.
The OFIC president will notify the campus president of their nominee’s selection
The campus president will notify the honoree and confirm their availability to attend the Awards Luncheon event on April 8, 2026, in Columbus at the Grand Event Center.
Selection Process
Nominations should be submitted via the form below or emailed to Maria Torres Alaniz, Assistant to the President.
