Weill Cornell Medical College graduates are incredibly talented, and each year the Alumni Association presents awards to several alumni and faculty. A committee is responsible for collecting nominations from members, and presenting candidates to the Board of Directors.
Awards Selection Committee
To submit a nomination for an Alumni Award, please complete the online nomination form by clicking here. Within the form, upload letters of recommendation and a CV (required) as outlined in the instructions, as well as any other documents that support the nomination. All nomination material for the 2026 Alumni Awards must be received by Oct. 8, 2025. If you have any questions, please contact the alumni office at 646-962-9560 or alumniawards@med.cornell.edu.
Award of Distinction (Alumni Only)
Established in 1949, the annual Award of Distinction recognizes an alumnus/a who has demonstrated exceptional achievement in education, research or patient care, and who has brought honor and acclaim to the Medical College. The Award of Distinction is presented at a special program on campus.
To nominate a candidate for the Distinguished Alumni Award, please submit a letter of recommendation and a CV for the nominee, via email to alumniawards@med.cornell.edu.
Past Award of Distinction Recipients
Special Achievement Award
The Special Achievement Award recognizes alumni with notable achievements in medicine or related fields that significantly advance healthcare and medical science, including "non-traditional" health care-related endeavors in areas such as national policy, business and entrepreneurialism, technology, aerospace and engineering, arts and culture, philanthropy, and humanitarian aid development.
To nominate a candidate for the Special Achievement Award, please submit a letter of recommendation and a CV for the nominee, via email to alumniawards@med.cornell.edu.
Past Special Achievement Award Recipients
Honorary Fellowship Award
Since 1970, the Alumni Association Board of Directors has had the distinct pleasure of annually awarding honorary fellowships to two outstanding (non-alumni) Weill Cornell faculty members whose scholarship, dedication and leadership have greatly enriched the life of the Medical College, its faculty and students. Honorary Fellows are recognized at Reunion Weekend, and are invited to participate in all alumni events and activities.
To nominate a candidate for the Honorary Fellowship Award, please submit a letter of recommendation and a CV for the nominee, via email to alumniawards@med.cornell.edu.