Recognition and Awards Program

The 2025 Recognition and Awards Program will be held at the Mike Ilitch School of Business from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 17. It will include an invite-only reception and ceremony for student, faculty and staff honorees for the following awards. 

25 Under 25 Award

Established in 2016, this award recognizes graduate and undergraduate students who have demonstrated success in at least two of the following categories: academics, leadership, professional development and/or campus/community service. To be selected, students must complete an online application. Submissions are ranked by a panel of judges comprised of executives from the business community. 

Distinguished Faculty Awards - Research, Service, Teaching

These awards recognize three Mike Ilitch School of Business faculty members for exemplary dedication to teaching, research and/or service. 

Sue Garr Innovative Teaching Award

This award recognizes an outstanding educator that demonstrates extraordinary and/or innovative efforts in teaching. The award was founded by the Sue Garr Innovative Teaching Fund, established in 2007 in memory of Sue Garr, who taught accounting at Wayne State University for more than 20 years.

Staff Excellence Award

This award recognizes members of the Ilitch School administrative staff who demonstrate exceptionalism in the workplace in one or more of the following areas: job knowledge, quality of work, teamwork, and innovation and adaptability.