Awards and Recognition

Formal awards presented to alumni and friends allow the School community to honor individuals who represent the best of Eastman to the world. Award recipients’ successes put a face on the value of an Eastman education.

Dean’s Medal

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.

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Eastman School of Music Distinguished Alumni Award is bestowed at the discretion of the dean upon alumni who embody the essence of the Eastman experience by demonstrating exceptional musicianship, scholarship, and leadership in the arts.

Luminary Award

With the Luminary Award, the Eastman School of Music recognizes individuals who have given extraordinary service to music and the arts at the community and national levels. The award’s design is taken from the round window at the top of the staircase in the Eastman School’s Main Hall, seen by generations of students since the School opened in 1921.

Eisenhart Award for Excellence of Teaching

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.

Honorary Degrees

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

Eastman Artist Award

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.

Centennial Awards

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.