Career Center Awards and Affiliations

Faculty Partner of the Year / Staff Partner of the Year
This award recognizes faculty and staff members who demonstrate exceptional collaboration and commitment to student success beyond the classroom. The recipient actively partners with the Career Center, and integrates career readiness into their classrooms or special programs. Their dedication enhances students' career and skill development, and industry connections, making a lasting impact on their professional growth.

Spirit Awards
This award recognizes an individual who embodies the energy, enthusiasm, and dedication that define the Career Center’s mission. The recipient inspires colleagues through their teamwork and initiative, and goes above and beyond to support students and partners. Their passion and commitment make a meaningful difference in the community they serve.

Alumni Champions
This award recognizes an outstanding alumnus who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting Career Career initiatives.  This individual has made a meaningful impact by actively engaging in mentorship, career education and recruitment activities, and advocates for Stony Brook students within their organization, encouraging their employer to consider and hire Stony Brook talent. 

Diversity Champion
This award acknowledges and celebrates those who go above and beyond in fostering inclusive environments and equality in the workplace and hiring practices.  Their commitment is demonstrated through engagement in mentorship and programming that helps to prepare students for success in the workplace.

Career Readiness Champion
This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to ensuring students are equipped with the skills, knowledge and experiences to successfully transition into their professional careers.  Awardees demonstrate commitment through collaborative efforts with the Career Center and active engagement and advocacy for career readiness initiatives embedding career preparedness into academic settings and special programs.

Internship Program of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding internship program that provides students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that support both personal and professional growth. The selected program demonstrates a strong commitment to mentorship and skill development and sets a high standard for student-centered learning and career readiness.

Community Partner of the Year
This award honors an organization that has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service. Through impactful collaboration, volunteer opportunities, and service-learning experiences, this partner has created meaningful pathways for students to engage with and contribute to their communities.

Employer Partner of the Year
This recognition is presented to an employer who is fully committed to the career education, preparedness, and recruitment of Stony Brook students and alumni for internship and job opportunities.  They take full advantage of all opportunities to engage on campus, building a pipeline for hiring Stony Brook talent. 

Rookie of the Year
This award recognizes an employer partner who has made a strong and immediate impact in their first year of engagement on campus or with a program. Whether through exceptional collaboration, demonstrated commitment to student success, or innovative approaches to recruitment, this employer has set a high bar for what it means to be an engaged and supportive partner from the very start.

DPLN (Diversity Professional Leadership Network) Professional Buddy of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding professional who has made a significant impact on the professional growth and success of DPLN students. The recipient has demonstrated a deep commitment to guiding others, and fostering development through consistent support, encouragement, and insight. This mentor goes above and beyond to inspire confidence, empower others to reach their potential, and plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders.

DPLN (Diversity Professional Leadership Network) Student Rising Star
This award honors a DPLN student who has demonstrated remarkable improvement and growth throughout their participation in the program. The recipient has shown resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to personal and professional development. Through active engagement, a willingness to learn, and consistent effort, this student has made significant strides in their career development and readiness, positioning themselves for continued success in the future.

DPLN (Diversity Professional Leadership Network) Student of the Year
This prestigious award recognizes a DPLN student who has distinguished themselves through outstanding performance, leadership, and dedication. The recipient has consistently demonstrated achievements in both their academic and professional development, actively contributing to the DPLN community. With a clear commitment to personal growth, a strong work ethic, and the ability to inspire others, this student has achieved great success and is ready to make a lasting impact in their future career.