Awards & Recognition

Honoring Excellence: A Tradition of Recognition

The ECU Alumni Association honors alumni and friends through its signature recognition programs. From dedicated service to East Carolina University to career accomplishments, these honorees exemplify Pirate pride. Celebrate the ECU Alumni Awards and the Distinguished Military Service Society Induction Ceremony, and applaud our 40 Under Forty honorees—young alumni making a significant impact in their professions and communities. Take a moment to nominate someone who deserves recognition for their contributions and leadership.

Excellence: A Gold Standard

ECU honors and recognizes Pirate achievements in many areas. Each year, we shine a light on alumni who fearlessly change lives for the better and demonstrate the power of an ECU education.

Crystal awards on a table

Alumni Awards

These awards honor alumni and friends of the university who demonstrate exceptional merit and achievement, distinguish themselves as leaders within the ECU community, and embrace East Carolina University as their own.
Learn About Alumni Awards
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Distinguished Military Service Society

The Distinguished Military Service Society honors individuals who have played a vital role in strengthening our nation and shaping the legacy of East Carolina University. For much of ECU’s history, students, faculty, staff, and supporters have contributed meaningfully to both national defense and the advancement of the university.
Learn About DMSS
40 Under Forty Leadership logo

40 Under Forty Leadership Awards

The East Carolina University 40 Under Forty Leadership Awards program honors alumni under the age of 40 who have leveraged their education to pursue their passions, achieve significant career milestones, and lead positive change through service, leadership and social responsibility.
Learn About 40 Under Forty

“I owe a lot of my personal success to East Carolina University. If it wasn’t for this university, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve some of my biggest goals and aspirations. It was here, at ECU, where I found my purpose in life.”

Lauren Patterson
2019 ECU Young Alumni Achievement Award Recipient
Class of 2011 and 2013