The Berkeley community is filled with people pushing the edges of what’s possible — business leaders whose achievements have shaped entire industries and benefited humankind; alums whose dedication to Berkeley has had a profound and lasting impact on students and faculty; and young alums whose early achievements are already showing great promise for their fields or communities. Each year, the university honors them with the Achievement Awards, co-presented by the UC Berkeley Foundation and the Cal Alumni Association.
The nomination deadline for 2026 was November 17, 2025.
The 2026 recipients will be formally presented with their awards at the Berkeley Charter Gala on May 21, 2026.
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Alum of the Year Award
Honors a prominent alum who exemplifies the very best of Berkeley, whose professional leadership and contributions have led to extraordinary advances that benefit the greater good of society, who gives back to the community and university, and who inspires others in their careers and personal lives. One award will be given each year.
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Berkeley Founders Award
Celebrates an alum or friend who has given long-term distinguished leadership and service to a broad range of academic, athletic, philanthropic, and other programs across the university. One award will be given each year.
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Campanile Excellence in Achievement Award
Recognizes an alum whose remarkable professional achievements reflect the excellence of a UC Berkeley education. A maximum of two awards will be given each year.
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Fiat Lux Faculty Award
Awards a faculty member whose extraordinary contributions go above and beyond the call of duty to advance the university’s philanthropic mission and transform its research, teaching, and programs. One award will be given each year.
Nomination Form
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Mark Bingham Award for Excellence in Achievement by Young Alums
Commends young alums who graduated within the last 10 years and have made a significant contribution to their community, country, or the world at large. This award pays tribute to Mark Bingham ’93, who died on September 11, 2001, defending the United States on United Airlines Flight 93. A maximum of two awards will be given each year.