FAA Legacy Awards

In celebration of both past legacies and emerging voices in the arts, the College of Fine and Applied Arts sponsors the FAA Legacy Awards. These awards recognize college alumni and friends who have demonstrated courage, curiosity, and passion in their work. We are honoring lifelong learners and advocates, individuals who have impacted their fields in transformative ways—catalysts with distinguished service to the arts.

Associate Dean for Advancement Jon Salvani shaking hands with a Legacy Award recipient at the ceremony.

Awards

Legacy Awards are presented annually during a ceremony that takes place on campus in the fall. During the Legacy Award ceremony the college also inducts new members of The Guild, a group of alumni, faculty, and friends of FAA who are recognized posthumously for their distinguished contributions.

Nominations for the 2024 Legacy Awards are now open through March 15. If you would like to nominate someone for a Legacy Award please submit this nomination form by March 15. This year we are also accepting nominations for The Guild.

Did you submit a nomination in the past but your nominee was not selected? Nominations are considered for a total of three years, but we recommend you submit updates to strengthen your existing nomination. More information on existing nominations can be found on the award guidelines pages linked below.

Legacy Awards

Distinguished Legacy Award

Awarded to FAA alumni who have attained outstanding success and national or international distinction in their chosen profession or life’s work and whose accomplishments reflect admirably on, or bring honor to, the College of Fine and Applied Arts and the University of Illinois. Distinguished Legacy Award guidelines

Emerging Legacy Award

Recognizes FAA alumni early in their careers who have made outstanding professional contributions to their field since graduating. Emerging Legacy Award guidelines

Illinois Arts Legacy Award

Recognizes volunteers, staff, loyal performers, affiliated artists, etc. who are not necessarily graduates of FAA but whose contributions have made a significant impact in the arts at Illinois. Illinois Arts Legacy Award guidelines