Awards and Recognition

Eastman School of Music

We are proud to present you with these exceptional award winners.

Established in 1990, the James S. Armstrong Alumni Service Award is presented to an alumnus/a in recognition of outstanding and extraordinary service, leadership, loyalty, commitment, and significant contribution to the University in broad and varied roles.

The award honors James S. Armstrong ’54, ’65 (MA), who served the University from 1976 to 1987 as director of alumni relations.

In honor of its centennial year, Eastman created the Centennial Award to recognize 100 individuals who exemplify Eastman’s mission and legacy through their commitment to artistry, scholarship, leadership, community engagement, and/or philanthropy.

Established in 2008, the Dean’s Medal recognizes extraordinary service, philanthropy, and leadership to the School, and dedication and commitment that inspire others to take leadership roles at the University. Individuals, families, associations, corporations, or foundations may be recognized. It is among the highest honors given by the School.

Established in 1972 as the Alumni Achievement Award, the Distinguished Alumnus/a Award recognizes alumni whose exceptional professional achievements, contributions to their chosen field, and service to the Eastman School of Music have brought honor to themselves and to the University of Rochester.

The Eastman Artist Award is bestowed upon individuals who have achieved great success in their chosen art and have demonstrated exceptional commitment of the Eastman School of Music.

This award is made solely on the criteria of effective teaching and recognizes a full-time faculty member who, by means of unusually effective teaching, has contributed significantly as a performer, composer, or teacher to the education of students.

Since 1929, the Eastman School of Music has honored the distinctive achievements of many outstanding composers, performers, scholars, and educators by conferring honorary degrees.

Established in 2006, the Eastman Luminary Award recognizes individuals who have given extraordinary service to music and the arts at the community and national levels, and whose dedication and achievements set an example for Eastman School of Music students and alumni. The design of the Luminary Award is taken from the round window at the top of the staircase in the Eastman School’s Lowry Hall, seen by generations of students since the School opened in 1921.

Established in 2008, the John N. Wilder Award honors an individual, family, association, corporation, or foundation whose philanthropy inspires others in support of an “Ever Better” University of Rochester. The award is named for John Wilder, first president (chairman) of the University’s Board of Trustees.