WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, Alum, Office/Department/Organization, Staff, Faculty

This award is inspired by the words of Indian author and activist, Arundhati Roy, “Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing” from her book, War Talk. The recipient of this award consistently shows a dedication to social justice through activism, research, community service, and/or civic engagement on or off campus that supports Asian communities and Asian people. Through deep engagement with communities and a spirit of collaboration, uplift and care - this person works to advance the well-being and/or empowerment of Asian people. A person nominated for this award should embody the idea that service is an ongoing practice and is reflective of the needs of the community they serve. The person should have a passion for contributing to a better world that is evident to everyone around them. 

IT’S AN HONOR JUST TO BE ASIAN AWARD (Cultural Excellence Award)

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, Student Organizations 

When Sandra Oh made history by being the first Asian to receive a Lead Actress Emmy nomination, she said “It's an honor just to be Asian. It is also an honor to help build community, bring your family into the work and speak up, even if your voice shakes and your heart races.” This award celebrates someone who has cultivated cultural pride on campus for Asian people and/or communities. This award recognizes someone who has actively contributed to enriching the cultural landscape, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and creating spaces for the Asian community to thrive. Through their leadership, creativity, and engagement the recipient has exemplified the spirit of cultural pride, unity, and excellence, inspiring others to embrace and appreciate the richness of Asian diasporic traditions and values.

THE MIDDLE PATH AWARD (Spiritual Community Builder Award)

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students, Alum, Office/Department/Organization, Staff, Faculty

This award title is inspired by the concept of the “middle path” found in Buddhism and Islam. Sufi poet and Islamic scholar, Rumi, wrote that the “Middle path is the way to wisdom.” Religion and spirituality is one important way that people build community on the UMBC campus. Asia is the birthplace of many different religions, and Asian and Asian diasporic communities are home to a beautiful mix of hundreds of religions and spiritual beliefs. Whether one actively engages in these practices or not, these traditions are intricately intertwined with and influence cultural identity and belonging. This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to fostering a sense of connection on campus through spirituality or religious engagement. This award honors someone who actively creates spaces for dialogue, growth, and collaboration centered in religious, spiritual, or worldview identity values. This recipient has made a lasting impact on campus, inspiring people’s personal spiritual journeys, as well as promoting mutual respect and understanding. 

LOVE TODAY AND TOMORROW AWARD (Empathetic Leadership Award)

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Undergraduate Students, Graduate Students

This student award is inspired by Grace Lee Boggs, author and organizer, who wrote “Love isn’t about what we did yesterday; it’s about what we do today and tomorrow and the day after.” in her book The Next American Revolution: Sustainable Activism for the Twenty-First Century. This student leader exemplifies compassion, empathy, and unwavering dedication to fostering a positive campus environment. This individual leads with nurturing and love, seeking to create spaces where students feel supported, valued, and heard. They inspire others to lead with empathy and create meaningful relationships. This person deeply cares for the well-being of their peers and makes the campus a kinder place for all.

DREAM TOGETHER AWARD (Faculty / Staff Mentor Award)

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Faculty, Staff

The multimedia artist, singer, songwriter, and peace activist Yoko Ono said "A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." The Dream Together Award is designed to honor the outstanding contributions of a faculty or staff member who has shown unwavering support, guidance, and mentorship to students, particularly those from Asian and Asian-American backgrounds. This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, advocating for diversity, and inspiring growth and success through their mentorship. Through their guidance, they have cultivated resilience, empowerment, and a strong sense of cultural pride within their students.

This award is presented to a mentor who has gone above and beyond in their role—transforming challenges into opportunities, creating spaces where students can excel and feel supported, and exemplifying the true spirit of community and empowerment. Their actions have left an indelible impact on the personal and academic growth of students, helping to bridge cultural divides and celebrate the richness of the Asian cultural experience.

These awards are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.