Do you know an alumni who should be recognized for their embodiment of HCU’s values in the real world or for their incredible contributions to HCU? The annual Alumni Awards ceremony is your chance to honor these individuals in front of the entire HCU community. Submit your nomination today to celebrate the achievements of a distinguished alumnus.
Celebrate the achievements of fellow alumni
About the Alumni Awards
The HCU Alumni Association Advisory Board, in conjunction with the University, work together to nominate and select Alumni, Staff, Students, and Faculty for the annual Alumni Awards.
Recipients of the HCU Alumni Awards are honored by the Alumni Association Advisory Board during Homecoming Weekend at the Spirit of HCU Awards, and they are inducted into the Walk of Honor in Bettis Quadrangle in the Brown Administrative Complex.
The entire University community as well as friends and family of the honorees are welcome to attend this event. The Alumni Association looks forward to this opportunity to celebrate all those for their contributions at HCU, their work, and the lasting impact each have on our community!
Types of Awards
Alumni may receive any of the following five distinguished awards.
Distinguished Alumnus Award
The Distinguished Alumnus Award is given to the alumnus who in addition to embodying the principles and ideals that Houston Christian University stands for, also has made significant contributions in their own profession or field.
Meritorious Service Award
The Meritorious Service Award goes to an alumnus who exemplifies a sustained commitment of time, actions, and energy towards furthering the ideals of Houston Christian University.
Hallmark Award
The Hallmark Award is given to a member of our incredible faculty or staff who not only gives so much to the current students that they teach but helps sustain a connection to our graduates long after alumni have crossed the stage. This award is given to a non-alumnus but a true Husky at Heart. After receiving this award, they become an honorary alumnus of HCU.
Emma Key Faithful Servant Award
The Emma Key Faithful Servant award is given to a HCU upper-level undergraduate student or recent alumnus / alumna whose words, deeds, and demeanor exemplify the very spirit of the amazing young girl that it’s named after. Emma Claire Key, the remarkable nine-year-old daughter of Steven ’96 and Sherry ’95 Key, exemplified service to others with a bold ability to evangelize.
Emerging Alumnus Leader Award
The Emerging Leader Award is given to honor an undergraduate alumnus of 10 or fewer years who has had early career success and made a positive impact in their community. This recipient recognizes the importance of their education at Houston Christian University and demonstrates interest in and loyalty to HCU.
Award Winners for 2025
Distinguished Alumnus Award
- Dale Jefferson ‘83
- Kish Russell-Yoquelet ’96
Meritorious Service Alumnus Award
- Dr. Shaundra Webb ’98
Hallmark Award
- Benny Gilbert H’25
- Dr. Lisa Ellis H’25
Emma Key Faithful Servant Award
- Yennisse Sevilla ’25
Emerging Alumnus Leader Award
- Jalyx Hunt ’24
- Jessica Kelly ’16
Special Presentation: The Servant Leader Achievement Award
- Saleim Kahleh ’84