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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.

 

Voices of Impact Award

The Voices of Impact Award recognizes a member of the American Public University (APU) community whose leadership fosters meaningful dialogue, encourages understanding across differing perspectives, and creates environments where individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued.

Through their actions, communication, and commitment to education, these individuals strengthen the University and the communities they serve. They demonstrate that lasting impact begins by listening to others, encouraging thoughtful conversations, and creating opportunities for people with different experiences and viewpoints to learn from one another.

This award celebrates individuals who inspire positive change by building connections, expanding understanding, and helping others succeed.

The Voices of Impact Award may be presented annually. However, if no application sufficiently meets the established criteria, the award may not be presented.

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Applicants must

  • Be a student, alum, faculty member, staff member, or member of the University's Board of Trustees.
  • Demonstrate a sustained commitment to fostering welcoming and supportive environments within the APU community or the communities they serve.
  • Demonstrate cultural awareness and competency.
  • Encourage respectful engagement with differing perspectives.
  • Foster intercultural communication and collaboration.
  • Promote inclusion and improve access to educational opportunities.
  • Inspire members of the APU community to become engaged and responsible global citizens.
  • 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 faculty, staff, students, alumni or another person familiar with their contributions.

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 leadership experiences, professional accomplishments, service activities, educational initiatives, presentations, publications, volunteer work, or other achievements relevant to the award.
  • One letter of recommendation from an individual who can speak to the applicant's leadership, character, and impact in fostering welcoming environments and meaningful engagement.
  • Optional supporting documentation such as publications, presentations, program materials, community initiatives, testimonials, awards, media coverage, photographs, or other evidence demonstrating the applicant's contributions.
  • Personal Reflection Essay: Applicants must submit a personal essay of no more than 500 words describing the accomplishments, experiences and contributions that demonstrate their qualifications for the Voices of Impact Award. The essay should address the following areas:
    • Building Community: Describe a time when you intentionally created an environment where individuals from different backgrounds, identities, or perspectives felt welcomed, respected, and empowered to participate. What actions did you take, and what was the outcome?
    • Encouraging Meaningful Dialogue: Share an example of how you helped people navigate differing viewpoints or experiences through respectful communication, collaboration, or education. What did you learn, and what impact did your efforts have?
    • Expanding Opportunity: Describe an initiative, program, mentorship experience, or other effort that improved access, strengthened belonging, or created meaningful opportunities for others to learn, grow, or succeed.
    • Creating Lasting Impact: The Voices of Impact Award recognizes individuals whose actions inspire positive change. Reflecting on your experiences, what impact are you most proud of, and how do you hope your work will continue to influence the APU community or the communities you serve?

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:

  • Commitment to fostering welcoming and supportive environments.
  • Cultural awareness and competency.
  • Ability to encourage respectful dialogue across differing perspectives.
  • Contributions to expanding opportunity and strengthening belonging.
  • Impact on the University community and/or the broader communities they serve.
  • Overall alignment with the mission and values of APU.

The University Awards Committee forwards its recommendation 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
  • Recipient Notified by: April 1, 2027
  • Recognition: Commencement Weekend 2027
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Recipient receives:

  • 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.