Honors and Awards

ESF Honors Program

The Honors Program provides opportunities for students to complete intensive research and creative projects under the guidance of research and design experts. The ESF Honors Program emphasizes and encourages holistic and multidisciplinary awareness to the problems and opportunities of the environment. www.esf.edu/honors

Alpha Xi Sigma Honor Society

Membership is offered to students with one completed ESF semester whose GPA is at least 3.175. Eligible students are notified by Alpha Xi Sigma each semester. Induction ceremonies are held each April.

Alumni Memorial Scholarships

Established in memory of ESF alumni who served in World War II, unrestricted grants are awarded to one outstanding member of the sophomore, junior and senior class, and to one graduate student. Grants range in amount from $500 for the sophomore recipient to $1000 for the graduate recipient. Eligible candidates are invited by the Alumni Office to apply in the spring semester.

Distinguished Teacher Award

Known in the past as the "Perfect Prof" award, this is given to a member of the faculty who students feel have given most generously of time, expertise, and personal interest.

Empire Forester Yearbook Dedication

The yearbook staff determines the criteria for and select the recipients of this special recognition.

Maple Leaf Award

Is given by faculty and staff to graduation students in recognition of significant volunteer service to the College community. Recipients receive a handsome bronze maple pin.

Nu Chapter of Sigma Lambda Alpha Honor Society

Founded at ESF in 1979, the student chapter of this national academic honor society formally recognizes scholastic achievements of students in Landscape Architecture. Requirements include attaining undergraduate fourth-year status with a minimum 3.200 academic average, or attaining second-year status as a graduate student with at least a 3.500 academic average. Induction ceremonies are held each spring.

Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award

Is awarded by the Graduate Student Association (GSA) in recognition of a Teaching Assistant who has performed "above and beyond the call of duty". Additional awards from the GSA are presented to recognize scholarship, research and public service.

President's High Honors

Often called the "Dean's List" at other colleges; this is an academic honor at ESF. Requirements are a course load of no fewer than 12 credit hours, achieving a GPA of 3.75 or better, with no grades of F or incomplete.

President's Honors List:

Students who carry more than 12 credits of coursework graded A-F and earn a minimum grade point average of 3.000 (no in-completes or F's) will be placed on the President's Honor List for that semester, and receive a handsome certificate.

Special Recognition Award

This award recognizes significant service to students by a member (or members) of the College staff.

Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges

Nominations from the College community are sought in the fall semester, successful candidates are notified during the spring semester. Award considerations include grade point average and volunteer service to the ESF Community. 

Each faculty also has awards, scholarships, and honors related to academic programs of study. Ask your Advisor, major professor, or Faculty Chair for more specific information about the recognition's given in your program, or consult with a staff member in the Office of Financial Aid, 115 Bray Hall, 470-6670.

Graduation with Honors

Undergraduates who achieve cumulative grade point average of 3.000 to 3.333 will earn cum laude (with distinction) status; 3.334 to 3.829 magna cum laude (with great distinction); from 3.830 to 4.000 summa cum laude (with greatest distinction).