Purpose
The Murrow Hall of Achievement recognizes individuals whose professional accomplishments, leadership, service and contributions exemplify the values of the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication and Washington State University. Since 2007, the Hall of Achievement has honored distinguished alumni whose careers have made significant contributions to their professions, communities and society. In 2023, the college expanded the recognition program to include a Service Award honoring individuals whose dedication has profoundly benefited the Murrow community.
The Hall of Achievement serves to:
- Celebrate excellence in communication-related professions.
- Recognize individuals whose achievements bring distinction to Murrow College and WSU.
- Highlight meaningful contributions to society, communities and the communication profession.
- Inspire current and future students through exemplary career paths and service.
- Strengthen relationships among alumni, supporters and the Murrow community.
Alumni Achievement Award
The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes Murrow alumni who have demonstrated exceptional professional accomplishment, leadership, innovation and impact within their field, industry or community. Candidates may be recognized for achievements accumulated throughout their careers or for a period of particularly significant contribution.
Service Award
The Service Award recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the Murrow community through service, mentorship, philanthropy, advocacy, partnership or leadership. Recipients may or may not be Murrow alumni.
Nomination Process
Call for Nominations
Murrow College will issue an annual call for nominations through appropriate communication channels, which may include:
- Alumni communications
- College website
- Email outreach
- Social media
- Faculty and staff networks
- Industry and community partners
The nomination period shall open and close on dates determined annually by the college, typically at the beginning of the fall semester and closing mid- to late-October.
Who May Nominate
Nominations may be submitted by:
- Alumni
- Faculty
- Staff
- Students
- Advisory board members
- Industry professionals
- Community members
- Friends of Murrow College
Nomination Materials
A complete nomination packet should include:
Required
- Completed nomination form
- Nomination statement outlining the nominee’s qualifications
- Letters of support
Optional
- Media coverage
- Published works
- Award recognitions
- Supporting documentation demonstrating impact
Incomplete nominations may be held for future consideration if sufficient information is not provided.
Selection Committee
The Murrow Professional Advisory Board (MPAB) serves as the official review and recommendation body for the Hall of Achievement.
MPAB members are entrusted with evaluating nominations and identifying candidates whose accomplishments, leadership, and service exemplify the Murrow Standard: a commitment to excellence, integrity, impact, innovation, and meaningful contribution to the profession, community, and the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication.
MPAB Deliberation and Recommendations
Following individual review of nomination materials, MPAB will convene to discuss candidates and identify those who best exemplify the purpose of the Hall of Achievement.
The board may consider:
- Professional distinction.
- Depth and breadth of impact.
- Service to profession or community.
- Contributions to Murrow College.
- Alignment with the values and reputation of the college.
At the conclusion of deliberations, MPAB will recommend a slate of finalists to college leadership for review.
The board may recommend:
- Multiple inductees.
- Fewer inductees than available positions.
- No nominee in a category if award standards are not met.
Maintaining the distinction and prestige of the Hall of Achievement should be the board’s primary consideration.
College Leadership Approval
MPAB recommendations will be forwarded to college leadership for final consideration and approval.
College leadership will:
- Review recommended finalists.
- Ensure alignment with award criteria and institutional values.
- Confirm final recipient selections.
Final approval authority resides with the dean or the dean’s designated leadership team.