Community Impact Award 

The Greater Washington DC Area Alumni Chapter of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. Community Impact Award honors individuals or groups that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to serving their community in the District of Columbia Metropolitan area. This award recognizes individuals or groups who have actively volunteered their time, skills, and resources to contribute to positive social change. This award highlights the critical role of community engagement and collective action that underscores the impact they can have when they work towards creating a more equitable and just society through their volunteer efforts. This award is more than recognition; it is a celebration of a purpose-driven culture.

Eligibility Criteria

• The candidate must be an active regular or life member in good standing with the JSU National Alumni Association, Inc., and an active member in GWDC JSU Alumni Chapter.

• The candidate must have graduated from Jackson State University (undergraduate or graduate) at least fifteen (15) years prior to the nomination or completed twenty-four hours of undergraduate study.

• The candidate must have demonstrated measurable impact in the local community within the past two years.

• The candidate’s actions should align with the chapter’s mission and values, promoting social responsibility, inclusivity, and collaboration.

Supporting Documentation

The candidate’s documentation should support efforts in the following areas:

• Committee Participation: The candidate should have served on chapter committees and contributed to the planning and execution of chapter events or initiatives.

• Student Recruitment: The candidate must have actively participated in initiatives aimed at recruiting prospective students to the college, such as being the institution at college fairs, delivering presentations at events, or mentoring applicants.

• Community Service: The candidate should show a significant commitment to community service through volunteer activities coordinated or endorsed by the chapter and other external organizations.

• Scholarship Involvement: The candidate should be engaged in scholarship programs by supporting fundraising activities or assisting with scholarship-related events.

• Financial Contributions: The candidate must provide evidence of consistent financial support to the chapter or related college initiatives within the past two years.

Evaluation Criteria

• Leadership: Evidence of initiative, motivation, and ability to inspire others.

• Impact: Measurable contributions to chapter growth, community projects, or alumni engagement.

• Innovation: Introduction of new ideas, approaches, or programs that benefit the alumni chapter.

• Community Engagement: Active participation in service, outreach, or networking activities.

Selection Process

• The GWDC JSU Alumni Chapter Executive Board will evaluate candidates based on leadership, innovation, impact, and alignment with the chapter’s values.

• The Executive Board will review all nominations and develop list of qualified candidates.

• The list of qualified candidates will be voted on by electronic ballot by all active alumni chapter members.

• The awardee will be notified in advance and recognized at the chapter’s annual event. 

Application Process

• Candidates can self-nominate or be nominated by another active member of the GWDC JSU Alumni Chapter.

• The application period is from April 22 through May 8, 2026.  Please send questions to the awards@gwdcjsu.org.