Nomination & Selection Process
The submission process changed for the 2025-26 academic year to increase efficiency in collecting, processing, and reviewing supporting documentation. The application for the 21st Century Leader Award is a two-part process made up of the nomination and the supporting materials package.
Submitting a Nomination
The deadline for nominating students was Friday, January 9, 2026.
Submitting a Supporting Materials Package
Upon receipt of a nomination, the Office of Community Relations and University Events will contact nominated students to request the remaining supporting materials.
From the nominee a
- personal statement
- resume or CV
- signed conduct clearance form
From their supporters
- a second required, on-campus letter of support*
- up to three additional letters of support (these may be from the UMass community or from off campus such as internship hosts, off campus supervisors, community organizations, etc).
* One letter of support must be from a member of the UMass Amherst faculty this can be either the nomination letter or the second required on-campus letter of support. If the nomination was submitted by a faculty member, then the second letter may come from a UMass Amherst graduate student or staff member.
Students will receive a link to an upload-only One Drive folder where nominees and supporters can upload their materials. The individual adding files to the folder will be asked to enter their first and last name. This should be the first and last name of the person completing the form. For example, a supporter should enter their name not the nominee's name.
Supporting materials packages are due by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026.
Use this link to get inspired by the Class of 2025's 21st Century Leader Award winners.
Selection Process Timeline
- Nominations were due on Friday, January 9, 2026 by 11:59 p.m.
- Supporting materials are due on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
- The committee will deliberate in early February to determine the selection of candidates moving forward.
- Winners will be notified before spring break and will be invited to work with University Relations on sharing additional information about their accomplishments to be featured in the commencement program and news releases.