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Washington State University
Volunteer Recognition

Recognizing Our Volunteers

WSU would not be the same without the enthusiasm and leadership of visionary volunteers. Thousands among the University community benefit either directly or indirectly from their dedication to and love of WSU.

The Awards

The WSU Foundation honors dedicated volunteers and their generous contributions of time and talent that impact the University in profound and countless ways through three awards presented annually at the WSU Foundation Spring Meeting:

  • Weldon B. Gibson Distinguished Volunteer Award—The WSU Foundation’s highest honor is named for the Foundation’s founding chair, the late Dr. Weldon B. “Hoot” Gibson (’38 Bus. Admin.), who through his unselfish efforts and energy gave shape and direction to the University’s fundraising activities. Receiving this award is an esteemed honor bestowed upon those individuals whose service is measured by the highest levels of impact and achievement.

 

  • William F. “Biff” Brotherton Cougar Spirit Award—This award honors special individuals who demonstrate generous philanthropic support of and enthusiastic volunteerism on behalf of Cougar Athletics and WSU. Established in 2011 after its namesake’s passing, the award is in honor of William F. “Biff” Brotherton (’65 Lib. Arts), whose own legacy is one of spirited leadership and generosity. The Brotherton Family also created a scholarship endowment in Biff’s memory, which will provide a scholarship award to a deserving WSU student-athlete each year in perpetuity.

 

  • Outstanding Service Award—Granted as a public testimonial to individuals who have made outstanding singular or collective contributions in service to advance the WSU Foundation and the University’s development efforts, these individuals are advocates for philanthropy who inspire the broader WSU community through their dedication and commitment to help the University realize its full potential through private support. WSU faculty and staff, including retirees, as well as volunteers are recognized through this award.

Award Criteria and Nomination Forms

Nominations for the WSU Foundation’s volunteer awards are accepted every spring. Selections are made after the Annual Fall Meeting and presented at the following Spring Meeting.

Before submitting a nomination, review the award criteria to assist in preparing your nomination.

Please note that 2024 Volunteer Awards have been selected and recipients notified. Any nominations submitted between now and September 1, 2024 will be considered for 2025 Volunteer Awards.

For questions, please contact Kelly Welch, Director of Volunteer Engagement at (Kelly.welch1@wsu.edu) if you have questions.

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Washington State University Foundation