The James E. McLeod Awards are named in honor of African and African American pioneers in the areas of literature, science, art and community service. Some are scholars while others are outstanding citizens. This group of individuals inspire us all to strive to reach our maximum potential while uplifting our neighbors.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Maya Angelou Award

Maya Angelou Award

Category: Postdoctoral Researcher – Leadership

Postdoctoral Researchers can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University faculty, administrators, staff, or students.

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Mary McLeod Bethune Award

Mary McLeod Bethune Award

Category: Graduate – Leadership

Students can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

George Washington Carver Award

George Washington Carver Award

Category: Undergraduate – Research

Student can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

W.E.B. Du Bois Staff Mentor Award

W.E.B. Du Bois Staff Mentor Award

Category: University Staff

Undergraduate and graduate students can submit nominations for the Staff Mentor Award.

John B. Ervin Award

John B. Ervin Award

Category: University College Undergraduate/Graduate – Civic Engagement

Student can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

Frankie Muse Freeman Award

Frankie Muse Freeman Award

Category: Undergraduate – Community Service

Student can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

Langston Hughes Award

Langston Hughes Award

Category: Undergraduate – Visual and Performing Arts or Creative Writing

Student can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

Wangari Maathai Award

Wangari Maathai Award

Category: Graduate – Community Service

Students can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

Nelson Mandela Award

Nelson Mandela Award

Category: Undergraduate – Leadership

Students can self-nominate or be nominated by Washington University administrators, academic advisors, faculty, staff and students.

Thurgood Marshall Special Award

Thurgood Marshall Special Award

Category: Undergraduate (Senior) – Leadership

Nominations ARE NOT accepted for this award. This award is given only at the discretion of the McLeod Awards Committee.