Faculty, graduate students and undergrads now have their own Honors Convocations

On April 1, the University of Pittsburgh will celebrate the achievements of faculty members who have distinguished themselves through teaching, research and public service at a new Faculty Honors Convocation ceremony.

In the past, a single event included and recognized both faculty and students but primarily emphasized undergraduate student achievement. This year, however, marks the start of a new tradition: There will be three separate ceremonies to ensure everyone receives the recognition they deserve.

“It is very exciting that we have the opportunity to re-envision Honors Convocation this year,” said Ann E. Cudd, provost and senior vice chancellor at the University of Pittsburgh. “We have created three convocations — all set to take place in person: one just for faculty, one for graduate students and one for undergraduate students. The opportunity to focus on the absolutely outstanding accomplishments of our faculty and students in this way really gives us time to share in their achievements and to celebrate them more fully.”

This year's Faculty Honors Convocation will take place in the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum at 3 p.m. A reception in Ballroom B of the University Club will immediately follow. The ceremony and reception are open to the public, and families and guests of the faculty being honored are welcome. No tickets are necessary, but registration is appreciated.

Featured speakers include Chancellor Patrick Gallagher, Provost Cudd, Senior Vice Chancellor and John and Gertrude Petersen Dean of the School of Medicine Anantha Shekhar, Senior Vice Chancellor for Research Rob A. Rutenbar, and Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity and Development John Wallace.

Pitt faculty and campus community members should register to attend no later than March 25 for the Faculty Honors Convocation. Honoree attendees should refer to their personalized invitation for their registration links.

The Graduate and Professional Students Honors Convocation will be held on Tuesday, April 5, at 5 p.m. The Senior Honors Convocation will take place Friday, April 29, at 5 p.m. These events are invitation only.

Registration and details are forthcoming about the student ceremonies.

Awards and recognition for faculty

At the Faculty Honors Convocation, Pitt will gather to pay tribute to the outstanding achievements of 300 faculty members from various schools that characterize the quality of academic life at the University and applaud the many contributions these individuals have made to the institution and the local community.

Here are the awards that will be presented:

• Chancellor’s Distinguished Public Service Award
• Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award
• Chancellor’s Distinguished Research Award
• Special Chancellor’s Distinguished Service Award
• Provost’s Award for Excellence in Doctoral Mentoring
• Provost’s Diversity in the Curriculum Award
• Distinguished Faculty and Endowed Chairs
• Select faculty who are national and prestigious award winners

— Kara Henderson