Thomas Jefferson Award

Description
The Thomas Jefferson Award recognizes faculty that have demonstrated clear distinction in one or more of
the following areas: research, teaching, writing, and creative activities; as well as public service. This award
is reserved for the University of Missouri System’s highest performing faculty members.
Number of Awards and Award Amounts
There will be up to one $10,000 award, less applicable taxes. The award also includes the Thomas Jefferson
Cup.
Who is eligible to be nominated?
Any faculty member at one of the four UM System universities with at least ten (10) years of service may be
nominated. Active faculty only. Nominations will be accepted annually.
Who may nominate?
Candidates may be nominated by any benefits-eligible faculty member or administrator.
Selection Committee
Representatives from each campus will be appointed by the provost to make recommendations to the
President.
Timeline for Awards
Call for nominations: First Weekday in October
Nomination due to Provost: Last Day of Fall Semester

The Thomas Jefferson Award, funded through a grant from the Robert Earl McConnell Foundation, honors a
University of Missouri System faculty member who demonstrates a clear, sustained distinction in one or
more of the following areas: research, teaching, writing, and creative activities; as well as public service to
the University, the state, the nation and/or the world. This award is the highest university-level honor that
can be bestowed on active faculty member by the President of the University.
The nomination packet shall include (in the following order):
1. The completed cover sheet.
2. A letter of support from the provost. Limit 2 pages.
3. A letter of support from the dean. Limit 2 pages.
4. A letter of support from the nominator.
5. A statement from the nominee providing additional or clarifying information to strengthen the
nomination. Limit: 500 words.
6. A CV of five pages or less emphasizing material relevant to the award.
7. Up to five (5) additional letters of support which may include external references.
NOTE: Materials utilizing font size smaller than 10 point will not be accepted. Do not include
transmittal letter or title pages between the above sections.

Previous Winner of University of Missouri Thomas Jefferson Award, Dr. Larry Gragg.