The University of the Arts Awards Program recognizes and supports the University’s most talented and accomplished artists. Each year, over 160 different awards are distributed to more than 200 students. Many awards are created by donors to honor or memorialize friends, family members, faculty, or alumni. However, local businesses and organizations also contribute gifts in the form of art supplies, gift certificates and memberships. 

Guidelines for Establishing an Award

Annual awards can be established with an outright gift of $1,000 or more. An annual commitment of $1,000 per year for five years is recommended but not required. Unlike endowed scholarships, annual awards are not permanent funds and are awarded only as long as donors contribute to the funds. Donors may choose the college, school or department from which they would like their award recipients to be selected. Donors may also decide the title of the award and suggest its criteria.

Award Funding Options

There are many ways to fund an award. Frequently used options include check, credit card or in-kind donations. (All donations made by credit card to the University of the Arts Award Program may be made online.)  In the past, common in-kind gifts have included memberships to local museums and art organizations, art supplies and gift certificates. Often, local businesses and organizations choose to fund awards as a means to help increase their philanthropic presence in the art and educational communities. Many other awards are funded through the giving of smaller donations from numerous people. This is especially common for awards that are established to honor or memorialize individuals.

Award Distribution

The University strives to select award recipients in accordance with the criteria recommended by the donor. Usually deans, faculty members, and/or department chairs are involved in this process. Under federal and state laws, the University of the Arts generally cannot administer awards restricted by race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnic background or gender.

Active University of the Arts Awards and Recipients

Please browse our 2008 Commencement Program to view awards and recipients for the 2007-2008 academic year.

Additional Awards Information

For more information about the University of the Arts Awards Program, please contact:

Mira C. Zergani
Director of Development, Major Gifts
The University of the Arts
320 South Broad Street
tel: 215.717.6505
fax: 215.717.6148
mzergani@uarts.edu