International Achievement Awards

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is proud to recognize outstanding alumni, faculty, and students whose exceptional work or service has made a significant, global impact.

Nominations for the International Achievement Awards are solicited annually for five award categories. All recipients are honored at a banquet co-hosted by the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost, the Illinois Alumni Association, and Illinois International.

Nomination Cycle

Nominations for the 2025 cycle are being accepted through December 1, 2024.

Nominations are also accepted on a rolling basis. Please visit the Submit a Nomination page for award cycle dates and deadlines.

Madhuri and Jagdish N. Sheth International Alumni Award for Exceptional Achievement

Established in 2000 with a generous gift from Dr. Jagdish and Mrs. Madhuri Sheth, this award recognizes international alumni who are highly distinguished in their profession, have made outstanding contributions to government, humanity, science, art, or human welfare, and exemplify the strength of their education at Illinois.

Sheth Distinguished Faculty Award for International Achievement

Established by the Provost in 2001 and endowed by Dr. Jagdish and Mrs. Madhuri Sheth in 2006, this award recognizes an Illinois faculty member for exemplary accomplishments in teaching, research, and public service in the international arena.

Charles C. Stewart International Young Humanitarian Award

Established in 2005, and endowed by Charles C. Stewart in 2007, this award recognizes the accomplishments of an Illinois graduate whose dedicated international service exemplifies the highest ideals of selflessness and dedication to the welfare of communities outside of the United States.

Illinois International Graduate Achievement Award

This award recognizes an Illinois graduate student whose innovative and sustained international research or public service abroad has had a significant, societal impact.

Illinois International Undergraduate Achievement Award

This award recognizes an Illinois undergraduate student (U.S. citizen or international) for a significant service or contribution resulting from their participation in an international study course, program, or project.