Distinguished Professor Award nominations now being accepted

Ohio University is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Distinguished Professor Award, the University’s highest recognition of faculty excellence. The application deadline is Friday, April 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

This prestigious honor celebrates faculty whose scholarly or creative achievements have earned significant recognition and whose work elevates Ohio University’s academic reputation. Faculty from all colleges, schools and disciplines are encouraged to participate in identifying colleagues whose contributions exemplify the very best of the professoriate.

Nominations may be submitted by any current Ohio University faculty member. A nomination packet must include a cover letter from the nominator and up to eight supporting letters from leading external experts in the candidate’s field, along with additional materials outlined on the Distinguished Professor website. Candidates are encouraged to be selective in assembling their materials.

All nominations must be submitted as a single PDF via email to president@ohio.edu no later than Friday, April 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Detailed guidance on the nomination process is available at www.ohio.edu/distinguished-professor.

Information sessions this spring

The Distinguished Professor Selection Committee will host one-hour information sessions during the spring semester for prospective nominators and nominees. These sessions will provide an overview of the selection criteria, nomination process and submission requirements, with time reserved for questions.

Participants may attend in person or via Teams on the following dates:

• Feb. 26, 2026, 4–5 p.m. — Baker University Center 231 and Teams
• March 3, 2026, 2–3 p.m. — Baker University Center 231 and Teams

About the Distinguished Professor Award

Established in 1958 through the generosity of Edwin and Ruth Kennedy as part of the John C. Baker Fund, the Distinguished Professor Award recognizes faculty whose accomplishments attain wide recognition and reflect the highest standards of scholarship, creativity and impact.

Eligible nominees must hold tenure and have at least five years of service at Ohio University. While excellence in teaching is essential, the primary criterion is a record of scholarly or creative work that has achieved distinction beyond the University. Additional information can be found at www.ohio.edu/distinguished-professor.