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Awards & Honorary Degrees

The SUNY Plattsburgh University Council recognizes exceptional leadership and service through two distinct awards that celebrate individuals whose contributions have advanced the mission, reputation, and impact of the university.

Awards

1. George W. Angell Distinguished Service Award

Recognizes individuals whose contributions have significantly advanced SUNY Plattsburgh through leadership, service, or advocacy.

Eligibility
Community leaders, public officials, and individuals outside the university’s faculty and staff structure are eligible. Faculty and staff may be considered only when their service extends beyond their professional responsibilities and demonstrates major institutional impact.

Criteria
Nominees should exemplify notable service, pioneering achievements, or leadership that has strengthened SUNY Plattsburgh’s growth, reputation, or mission.

Presentation
Presented periodically at commencement ceremonies.

Nominations (Due Oct. 22, 2025)
Submit nominations with a brief justification to [email protected]

2. University Council of Distinction Award

Reserved for individuals whose transformative leadership and service have fundamentally shaped the identity, direction, or legacy of SUNY Plattsburgh.

Eligibility
Trailblazers, philanthropists, policymakers, community leaders, or visionaries whose contributions have made a historic and lasting impact on the institution.

Presentation
Awarded on rare occasions to preserve its prestige and presented at a major university ceremony or event.

Nominations (Due Oct. 22, 2025)
Submit nominations with a brief justification to [email protected]

Past Recipients

Honorary Degrees

The purposes of honorary degrees awarded by the State University of New York are to:

  • Recognize excellence in the fields the degrees authorized at SUNY campuses as well as business, philanthropy, public affairs, and public service, which exemplify SUNY’s mission;
  • Honor meritorious and outstanding service to SUNY, the State of New York, the United States, or to humanity at large; and,
  • Recognize those whose lives and significant achievements serve as examples of SUNY’s aspirations for its diverse student body;
  • Elevate SUNY in the eyes of the world by honoring individuals who are widely known and highly regarded for achievements in their respective fields of endeavor.

 

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