GPSA acknowledges two UNLV academic faculty members who show compassion for graduate and professional student professional development. A mentee’s success reflects their mentor. We are seeking advisors and mentors who support, understand, and guide the aspirations of their students. These mentors are people who have demonstrated continued success in preparing graduate-level students for their academic or professional careers.  

Eligibility

UNLV academic faculty.

Award

GPSA will present the winner with an accolade recognizing their mentorship at the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum Awards Ceremony. Awardees are encouraged to attend the Awards Ceremony in person.

GPSA will recognize one individual who is behind the scenes. This individual handles the “miscellaneous jobs” that connect faculty and students together. They find solutions for graduate and professional student issues and go above and beyond providing assistance. The contribution of this individual reduces student stress and helps them achieve success. This award was enacted to bestow formal recognition upon devoted supporters of graduate and professional students who have made contributions that better the life of graduate and professional students.

Eligibility

UNLV classified staff, administrative faculty, and academic faculty.

Award

GPSA will present the winner with an accolade recognizing their contributions at the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum Awards Ceremony. Awardees are encouraged to attend the Awards Ceremony in person.

GPSA is looking for a graduate or professional student who is making a tangible impact on their community. This individual is not thinking about improving their life alone, but how to improve the lives of others. The recipient of this award represents creativity, resourcefulness, service, and potential. Our community is grateful for such an incredible individual, whether through professional or volunteer service, they make a positive impact on the lives of others. The recipient of this award embodies the values represented in the university’s vision. Successful candidates for this award may be one or more of the following:

• Advocating for and effecting change within a specific area or community
• Addressing critical social, cultural, economic, health, or environmental needs
• Pursuing passion projects that benefit the greater good
• Driving change through philanthropy or involvement

Eligibility

• Open to all UNLV graduate and professional students.​
• Self-nominations are welcome.
• Enrolled in a minimum of one (1) credit hour during the current academic year

Award

$300 monetary award (scholarship) and recognition at the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum Awards Ceremony. Awardees are encouraged to attend the Awards Ceremony in person.

The purpose of this award is to acknowledge graduate and professional students who have proven to be outstanding scholars in their field. GPSA seeks to spotlight those who are innovatively advancing their discipline or exploring pioneering research topics. Nominees will have demonstrated scholarly and professional qualities that set them apart within their program or industry. Characteristics for consideration could include, but are not limited to:

• Originality in research
• Conference papers, proceedings, presentations, or honorariums
• Publications
• Thesis or dissertation quality
• Grant funded research
• Involvement within their college, department, or program
• Teamwork
• Professionalism
• Student ratings of instruction
• Work Ethic

Eligibility

• Open to all UNLV graduate and professional students.​
• Self-nominations are welcome.
• Enrolled in a minimum of one (1) credit hour during the current academic year

Award

$300 monetary award (scholarship) and recognition at the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum Awards Ceremony. Awardees are encouraged to attend the Awards Ceremony in person.

The Graduate & Professional Student Association (GPSA) proudly presents the BEST of UNLV Award, recognizing a graduate or professional student who embodies the spirit of the university, while exemplifying the purpose of GPSA. This award honors individuals who make meaningful contributions to our campus through involvement, leadership, scholarship, service, and advocacy.

The ideal candidate will champion UNLV’s mission and vision, engaging in scholarship, research, or creative activities that leave a lasting impact. They will reflect UNLV’s values, promoting access and inclusion by encouraging others to get involved, upholding excellence and integrity in their academic and professional endeavors, and demonstrating compassion by fostering a sense of belonging among peers. Their collaboration and stewardship contribute to a thriving, supportive university community by effectively engaging with university resources and working to uplift others.

Additionally, the recipient will support GPSA’s mission, advocating for fellow graduate and professional students, strengthening professional and research communities, and fostering a culture of camaraderie. Their efforts enhance the graduate student experience and their efforts reflect the spirit of UNLV—one of resilience, innovation, and community.

Nomination Criteria

Candidates for this award may demonstrate, but are not limited to:

• Academic Excellence
• Leadership
• Service & Advocacy
• Community Engagement & Involvement
• Professionalism
• Collaboration or Mentorship
• Scholarly Achievement
• Personal Growth

Eligibility

Open to all UNLV graduate and professional students.​

Self-nominations are welcome. Enrolled in a minimum of one (1) credit hour during the current academic year

Award

$500 monetary award (scholarship) and recognition at the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum Awards Ceremony. Awardees are encouraged to attend the Awards Ceremony in person.