Gold Axe Awards
Recognizing outstanding contributions to the NAU community
Each semester, Northern Arizona University recognizes seniors who have made outstanding contributions to the university and community. The award honors those who are committed to excelling in life outside of the classroom through leading student organizations, providing service to the community, involvement in their academic college, and more.
The seniors who are selected for their contributions will receive the prestigious Gold Axe Award. These awards will be presented at the Gold Axe Award Reception, co-sponsored by the Associated Students of NAU (ASNAU), Office of the Dean of Students, and the Office of Alumni Engagement. In addition to the Gold Axe Award, the NAU President will honor the top applicants with the President’s Prize.
Selection Process
Upon submitting your Gold Axe Application and after the deadline, we compile all applications and recommendation forms. We confirm applicant’s NAU status, credit hours, and ensure all applicants have a recommendation form submitted. Next, the applications are divided amongst the selection committee, which is comprised of staff across the university. They review the applications and recommendation forms fully. Each applicant is reviewed by 3 members of the committee, who score each applicant utilizing a rubric. The scores take into account the quantity and depth of experiences in the application. Scores are submitted, along with a top 5 ranking of who the committee member recommends to receive the award. All scores and top 5 lists are compiled, and checked in comparison to the other 2 reviewers. Finally, the selection committee meets to discuss all applicants and make final selections based on application/recommendation materials, and scores.
Applicants who have completed at least 90 credit hours are eligible to apply for the award in their final semester. Should they be away from campus in their final semester (for internships, student teaching, etc.) they have the option of applying EITHER during their final semester or the previous term (final semester on campus), but not both. This must be the applicant’s first bachelor’s degree. Applicants must also be enrolled in coursework and be able to provide documentation in order to qualify. The Gold Axe celebrates seniors who have contributed significantly to life outside of the classroom. Your application reflects all of your accomplishments, contributions, and commitments. Please be detailed in representing your Lumberjack story. The application deadline for Fall 2022 is Friday, September 23 at 5:00pm. Late submissions will not be accepted or reviewed. The selection committee will review all applications and all applicants will be notified whether they are or are not chosen to receive the award by mid-October 2022. The Gold Axe application is available online and meant to be completed in a single session. You will need to have the following prepared before submitting your application: In addition to your application, a Recommendation Form must be filled out by a faculty/staff member of NAU. This is also due by Friday, September 23 at 5:00pm. It is the applicant’s responsibility to send this form to the faculty/staff member of their choice and inform them of the deadline. Please contact GoldAxe@nau.edu with any questions.Eligibility Accordion Closed
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