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On August 5, 2026, American Public University System combined with Rasmussen University and Hondros College of Nursing to form a single higher education institution. American Public University System (System) now includes American Public University, American Military University, Rasmussen University, and Hondros College of Nursing. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public Education, Inc. (APEI). We are continuing to update our website to reflect our new structure.

 

President's Award

The President's Award is the University's highest honor recognizing an exceptional graduating student whose achievements exemplify academic excellence, servant leadership, integrity, and a sustained commitment to making a positive difference.

This distinguished award honors graduates who have demonstrated outstanding scholarship while making meaningful contributions to the University, their profession, military service (when applicable), and/or their community. President's Award recipients represent the highest ideals of American Public University (APU) and serve as an inspiration to fellow graduates through their leadership, character, and commitment to service.

One bachelor’s degree recipient and one master’s degree recipient may be selected each year. If no applicant sufficiently meets the established criteria, the award may not be presented.

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Applicants must:
  • Have conferred a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or submitted a graduation application for a bachelor’s or master’s degree expected to be conferred, between August 1, 2026 and June 1, 2027.
  • Have a 4.00 cumulative GPA.
  • Have made a significant contribution to their community and/or nation.
  • Have made a significant contribution to their discipline or professional practice.
  • Demonstrate strong leadership skills both professionally and personally.
  • Have an inspiring story of courage, leadership, dedication or service.
  • Be in good academic and conduct standing with the University.

Eligible individuals may apply directly, or an application may be submitted on their behalf by a faculty member, staff member, student, alum, supervisor or another individual familiar with their accomplishments.

Whether applying directly or having an application submitted on their behalf, a complete application must include:

  • Completed application form.
  • Current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, leadership experiences, professional accomplishments, military service (if applicable), volunteer activities, honors, awards, publications, presentations, or other achievements relevant to the award.
  • One letter of recommendation from a faculty member, supervisor, mentor, or community leader who can speak to the applicant's scholarship, leadership, character, and overall impact.
  • Optional supporting documentation that strengthens the application, such as awards, certificates, publications, presentations, media coverage, letters of appreciation, or examples of significant projects, research, or service initiatives.
  • Personal Essay: Applicants must submit a personal essay of no more than 1,000 words describing the accomplishments, experiences and contributions that demonstrate their qualifications for the President’s Award. The essay should address the following areas:
    • Scholarship and excellence: Academic experiences, accomplishments or challenges that demonstrate the applicant’s commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.
    • Leadership through service: An example of how the applicant’s leadership positively influenced others, including the challenge addressed, actions taken and lasting impact created.
    • Living the University’s mission: How the applicant’s experience at APU has shaped their personal, professional or civic leadership and how their work and service reflect the University’s mission and values.
    • Continuing impact: How the applicant plans to use their education, leadership and experiences to continue serving others and creating meaningful change after graduation.

    The essay should provide specific examples that demonstrate the applicant’s academic achievement, leadership, service, character, integrity and overall impact.

    All application materials must be submitted in PDF format unless otherwise specified. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

Applications are reviewed by the University Awards Committee using a standardized evaluation rubric.

The committee evaluates each applicant based on:

  • Academic achievement.
  • Leadership and service.
  • Contributions to the University and broader community.
  • Character and integrity.
  • Overall impact and alignment with the University's mission and values.

The University Awards Committee forwards the top applicants to the Office of the President for final review and approval.

  • Applications Open: September 1, 2026
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2027
  • Committee Review: February-March 2027
  • Recipients Notified by: April 1, 2027
  • Recognition: Commencement Weekend 2027
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Recipients receive:

  • Recognition during Commencement weekend.
  • A crystal trophy.
  • Travel and hotel accommodations in accordance with University award guidelines.
  • Recognition in University communications.

Attendance at Commencement is encouraged but not required.

Questions regarding eligibility or the application process may be directed to the University Awards Committee at universityawards@apus.edu.