MNAO Awards
In conjunction with the College, the MNAO annually recognizes a number of MCN alumni or friends through its Alumni Awards program. Four awards are presented: the Distinguished Alumni Award, the Early Career Achievement Alumni Award, the Service Award, and the Spirit of Nursing Award. All alumni are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals for these awards.
To nominate someone please fill out an Online Form.
Award Descriptions and Criteria
Distinguished Alumni
The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to a graduate of the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University (or formerly the Mennonite School/College of Nursing) who
- Has demonstrated significant accomplishment and leadership in the field of nursing, as well as other civic, cultural, or charitable activities
- Has demonstrated a dedication to nursing and shows outstanding professionalism, and by her/his example has promoted and elevated the general image of the profession of nursing
- Has demonstrated continued interest in and support for the College
- Personifies the values of the College in her/his life
This is the highest award the College bestows upon its graduates.
Early Career Achievement Alumni Award
The Early Career Achievement Alumni Award is presented to a graduate of the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University (or formerly the Mennonite School/College of Nursing) who:
- Has completed BSN degree within 10 years of award date
- Has demonstrated significant accomplishment and leadership in the field of nursing, or in other civic, cultural, or charitable activities
- Has demonstrated continued interest in and support of the college
- Personifies the values of the College in her/his life
Service Award
The Service Award recognizes exceptional service to the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University; to the Mennonite Nurses Alumni Organization; or to humanity, inasmuch as such service reflects the values of the College. The recipient may or may not be a graduate of Mennonite College of Nursing....
Spirit of Nursing
In 2010, the MNAO Awards Committee created the Spirit of Nursing Award to honor Mary Punke '54 and June Forbes '54 for their dedication to the profession of nursing, their college, and classmates. They are a living testimony to the values of Mennonite College of Nursing, and concern themselves with the physical, emotional, and spiritual care of others. After presenting this very special award to Mary and June, the MNAO Awards Committee has selected recipients every year since it was established, and welcomes nominations for this award.
The Spirit of Nursing Award recognizes a graduate(s) of the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University (or formerly the Mennonite School/College of Nursing) who has demonstrated through their work and/or personal life a commitment to the values of Mennonite College (School) of Nursing. These values may be exceptional dedication to patient care and clinical excellence, commitment to compassionate care, community service or advocacy for the vulnerable human.