50 Under 50

Union Commonwealth University is a pillar of excellence, with nearly 16,000 alumni excelling in business, entrepreneurship, research, healthcare, science, technology, the arts, entertainment, media, sports, public service, philanthropy, education, and beyond.


Our 50 Under 50 program celebrates Bulldog alumni who exemplify the mission and values of the University. These outstanding individuals are making a significant impact and demonstrating how a Union Commonwealth University degree can be a powerful catalyst for success in their careers, communities, and lives.


Developed by the Office of Advancement, the 50 Under 50 alumni award aims to engage, re-engage, educate, honor, and cultivate the next generation of UCU advocates, donors, and ambassadors. As ambassadors, class members may be invited throughout the year to serve as speakers, panelists, advisory committee members, and participants in unique opportunities across the University.


The class will be selected in March 2025, with 10 honorees revealed each month leading up to Homecoming Weekend 2025, where the entire class will be brought back to campus to be honored and recognized..

NOMINATE

Nominations for the 50 Under 50 program are now open! The nomination form will close on January 31, 2025.

Nomination Form

CRITERIA

  • Must be a Union Commonwealth University graduate (undergraduate or graduate degree).
  • Must not have reached their 51st birthday by September 1, 2025. Candidates who turn 51 before this date are NOT eligible.
  • Should have made a significant impact in their respective field, profession, or community.
  • Cannot be an employee of Union Commonwealth University.
  • Must be willing to develop and maintain engagement with Union Commonwealth University.
  • Must be willing to submit a high-resolution photo, if selected, for publication by the university.

FAQ

  • What is the age requirement for 50 Under 50 candidates?

    To be eligible for consideration in the 50 Under 50 Class, nominees must not have reached their 51st birthday by September 1, 2025. Candidates who turn 51 before September 1, 2025 will NOT be eligible.

  • How do I nominate someone for 50 Under 50?

    To nominate someone, click the button above and complete the form before 11:59 p.m. on January 31, 2025. The nomination process is simple.

  • Can I nominate more than one person?

    You can nominate as many people as you'd like, but only one nominee per form.

  • Can I nominate myself?

    Absolutely! Who better to highlight your achievements and contributions than you?

  • Does the nominator have to be an alum?

    No, the nominator does not have to be an alum.  It could be an employer, co-worker, friend, clergy person or simply anyone who knows the nominee well.

  • How are the Top 50 selected?

    We anticipate receiving hundreds of nominations for the 50 Under 50 program. Our team will compile all the submissions into a comprehensive list. The 50 Under 50 Selection Committee will then carefully review each nomination, assessing the candidates' achievements and contributions. After thorough discussion and consideration, the committee will select the final 50 honorees, ensuring a diverse representation across various fields and sectors for the Class of 2025.

  • What makes a nomination stand out?

    Our committee seeks nominees with significant accomplishments in their respective fields, including community engagement. When completing the nomination or nominee information form, please be as detailed as possible. Include measurable achievements such as profit increases, awards from professional associations, or the successful completion of a project. We understand that some achievements may not be easily quantified or widely recognized, so providing thorough details is crucial.


    Additionally, the committee will consider the nominee’s involvement in community and volunteer work, emphasizing their dedication to helping others and their overall contributions. Specific examples of these activities will greatly enhance the nomination

  • When will the nominees find out if they have been selected as members of the 50 Under 50 Class of 2025?

    Those who are selected for this years 50 Under 50 class will be contacted by March 31, 2025.