Saxa Awards

About

The Center for Student Engagement hosts the Saxa Awards at the end of each academic year. This awards ceremony recognizes and celebrates student leaders, student organizations, and the commitment to student activities and programming. These outstanding students, events, and campus partners are rewarded throug the Saxa Awards for their contributions above and beyond the call of duty to programs, leadership, and events sponsored through our office. 

Saxa Awards 2025

Individual Awards

How to Nominate Yourself?

The award nomination should include:

  • Letter of Nomination with supporting narrative, not to exceed 2 pages (double spaced). As you are writing the letter, consider the individual award’s criteria to build the most representative and accurate picture of yourself and why you are deserving of winning this award, for more details on what to include in the letter please check the award description page. 
  • Supporting Letter(s) from Faculty, Staff, or Colleagues – there is no strict limit, however 2 per type (faculty, staff, student) is typical.

Description

This award is presented to a first-year undergraduate student who has shown an early and meaningful impact and contributions to student life on campus through community engagement, organizational leadership potential, and participation within the community.

Award Criteria

Community Engagement

The student demonstrates active participation in campus activities, organizations, or initiatives that foster a sense of community, inclusion, and belonging. Examples include involvement in campus events, volunteer activities, or initiatives aimed at improving campus life.

Organizational Leadership Potential

The student has become involved in a student organization and made significant contributions to a student organization or project. This can include founding or revitalizing a student group, leading an event or program, or showing initiative in organizing student activities.

Positive Influence on Campus Culture

The student contributes positively to the overall campus environment, whether through fostering collaboration, or promoting inclusivity and diversity. The nominee should exhibit behaviors that encourage engagement and inspire others.

Participation in Campus Activities

The student consistently participates in academic or extracurricular activities, demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment to enriching the student experience. This could include participation in clubs, sports, student government, or campus initiatives.

Academic Performance 

While the focus is on student life, the student should also show dedication to their academic pursuits. This criterion helps recognize well-rounded students who manage both academic and extracurricular excellence.

Description

Awarded annually to an Outstanding Senior who best exemplifies the values of Jesuit education as they spend their last year on the Hilltop. The student will have shown leadership on campus. The student will be one the University can point to with pride as someone who shows that they are preparing for a life of service in the future. This award is named after Martha Swanson, Director of Student Programs from 1984-2007, who is known for her dedication to and work with seniors.

Award Criteria

Exemplification of Jesuit Values

The student embodies the core values of Jesuit education, such as cura personalis (care for the whole person), a commitment to social justice, and striving for excellence in all aspects of life. The nominee should demonstrate a deep sense of ethics, integrity, and a desire to serve others.

Campus Leadership

The student has shown outstanding leadership on campus, taking initiative in student organizations, projects, or events. They have demonstrated the ability to inspire and guide others, lead with compassion, and make meaningful contributions to the student body, particularly during their senior year. As a leader, they model qualities such as integrity, humility, empathy, and responsibility, setting a positive example for others to follow. Their leadership has left a lasting impact on the campus community, contributing to its growth and inclusivity.

Dedication to Service

The student has exhibited a commitment to service, both on and off campus, through community service, volunteer work, or involvement in social justice initiatives. This service should reflect a clear desire to improve the world around them, aligning with the Jesuit principle of being “men and women for others.”

Description

Awarded to a Georgetown University student who has made outstanding contributions to the campus community by his or her leadership, programming endeavors, individual skills, volunteer activities, service and attitude in support of student activities as a member or leader of Center for Student Engagement administrative group such as, an advisory board, class committee, student government.

Award Criteria

Exceptional Leadership

The student has demonstrated exemplary leadership within a Center for Student Engagement administrative group, such as an advisory board, class committee, or student government. They have successfully guided their peers, fostered collaboration, and created a positive, inclusive environment. Their leadership reflects integrity, initiative, and the ability to inspire and empower others.

Significant Programming Contributions

The student has contributed to the planning and execution of impactful programs or initiatives that have enriched the campus community. Their programming efforts exhibit creativity, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to addressing student needs and fostering engagement.

Volunteerism and Service

The student has actively participated in service and volunteer activities that support the mission of the Center for Student Engagement and enhance the overall campus experience. They consistently go above and beyond to serve their peers and the broader Georgetown community.

Commitment to Excellence

The student consistently demonstrates a positive attitude, professionalism, and dedication to their role. Their reliability, enthusiasm, and commitment to the university’s values make them a role model for their peers.

Description
Given annually to a student that best exemplifies outstanding leadership, involvement and sportsmanship on a club sports team. This award is named in memory of Michael Evan “The Gavel” Jurist, SFS Class of 2007, for his four years of commitment and leadership to the Club Tennis team where he was one of the team’s first-ever members. Michael passed away unexpectedly in July 2007; this award memorializes his service and exemplary leadership.

Award Criteria
Exemplary Leadership
The student has demonstrated outstanding leadership within their club sports team. This includes guiding the team through challenges, fostering collaboration, and inspiring teammates through their dedication, reliability, and vision. They exhibit the qualities of a true leader both on and off the field.

Commitment to Club Sports
The student has shown consistent involvement and dedication to their club sports team, contributing to its growth, success, and community. Their sustained participation reflects a deep commitment to the values and mission of club sports at Georgetown.

Sportsmanship and Integrity
The student embodies the principles of fair play, respect, and ethical behavior, setting a positive example for their teammates and opponents alike. They handle competition with grace and promote a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Positive Impact on the Team
The student has made a meaningful and lasting contribution to their club sports team, helping to foster a supportive, inclusive, and motivated team culture. Their efforts have strengthened the team’s identity and community.

Description
Is given to an undergraduate student who has had a positive impact on the university community through offering an array of outdoor activities, shown leadership in the OE community and beyond, and offered OE members an opportunity to expand their leadership skills through modeling exemplary behavior at the hilltop and out in the wilderness.

Award Criteria
Leadership in Outdoor Education (OE)
The student has demonstrated outstanding leadership within the Outdoor Education (OE) community by guiding others, organizing impactful outdoor activities, and fostering a sense of teamwork and collaboration. They have exhibited initiative, reliability, and a strong ability to lead both on campus and in wilderness settings. The student has contributed meaningfully to the university community by creating opportunities for engagement in outdoor activities. 

Exemplary Role Modeling
The student has consistently modeled exemplary behavior and values, both on campus and during outdoor activities. Through their actions, they have provided OE members with opportunities to learn and grow as leaders, setting a high standard for conduct, respect, and teamwork. The student has actively supported and mentored others in the OE community, creating opportunities for peers to expand their leadership skills. They have demonstrated a commitment to empowering others and fostering a culture of shared growth and development.

Dedication to Outdoor Education
The student has shown a strong passion for and dedication to outdoor education through their consistent involvement, promotion of sustainability, and commitment to enhancing the OE program. Their enthusiasm and advocacy for outdoor experiences have had a lasting impact on the program and its participants.

Description
Awarded to a Georgetown University student who has made outstanding contributions to the campus community by their leadership, programming endeavors, individual skills, volunteer activities, service and attitude in support of the performing arts as a member or leader of a group under the Performing Arts Advisory Council.

Award Criteria
Leadership and Impact
The student has demonstrated outstanding leadership within the Performing Arts Advisory Council (PAAC) or one of its affiliated groups. They have guided peers with vision, initiative, and collaboration, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for the performing arts community. The student’s contributions have made a lasting and meaningful difference to the PAAC community.

Significant Programming Contributions
The student has made meaningful contributions to the planning and execution of performing arts events, performances, or programs that have enriched campus life. Their efforts exhibit creativity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to promoting the arts.

Artistic Excellence
The student has demonstrated exceptional individual skills as a performer, director, choreographer, or in other creative roles. Their artistic contributions have significantly elevated the quality and impact of performances within the PAAC community.

Positive Attitude and Teamwork
The student consistently exhibits a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and professionalism in their work. They foster collaboration, encourage their peers, and contribute to a strong sense of community within PAAC.

Description
Awarded to one Cornerstone Mentor, who has made a positive impact on first-year students and showed support for students to more easily transition and connect with Georgetown University and promoted personal development and wellbeing. 

Award Criteria
Positive Impact on First-Year Students
The mentor has made a significant positive impact on first-year students by fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. Through their guidance, they help students feel connected to the Georgetown community, easing their transition to university life and encouraging a sense of belonging that supports their academic and social success.

Promotion of Personal Development and Wellbeing
The mentor actively supports the personal growth and wellbeing of their mentees by providing thoughtful guidance, encouragement, and access to resources. They empower students to build confidence, resilience, and balance, enabling them to navigate the challenges of university life while prioritizing their mental and physical health.

Excellence in Mentorship
The mentor exemplifies exceptional mentorship through their reliability, empathy, and approachability. They serve as a trusted guide and advocate for first-year students, inspiring them to explore opportunities, engage with the university, and achieve their full potential. Their dedication has a lasting and meaningful impact on their mentees and the broader Georgetown community.

Description
Recognizes an OA who went above and beyond the call of duty during New Student Orientation for their group and the entire program. This student volunteer demonstrated commitment and service to the values of the NSO programs, such as inclusiveness, dedication, enthusiasm, and an understanding of new student needs.

Award Criteria
Exceptional Commitment to NSO Values
The Orientation Advisor has consistently embodied the core values of the NSO program, including inclusiveness, dedication, and enthusiasm. Through their actions, they have fostered a welcoming and supportive environment that celebrates diversity and ensures every new student feels valued and included.

Outstanding Support for New Students
The OA has demonstrated a deep understanding of new student needs, providing thoughtful guidance and support throughout their transition to university life. They have gone above and beyond to ensure their group members feel connected, confident, and prepared to succeed at Georgetown.

Leadership and Dedication to the NSO Program
The OA has shown exceptional dedication to the success of the overall NSO program. Their leadership, reliability, and proactive efforts have positively influenced not only their group but also the broader NSO community, leaving a lasting impact on the program’s success and culture.