The UCF India Center is building academic bridges, enhancing cross-cultural understanding, and connecting communities across India and the United States. To accomplish this work, it takes the dedication, investment, and commitment of many individuals and groups.
We are delighted to announce a new awards program we have launched to recognize some of those making a difference each year and we invite your nominations. We will review nominations through a thoughtful process and celebrate award winners at our Republic Day event at UCF with the Consulate General of India, Atlanta, on February 8, 2026. Award winners will be announced in the presence of the Consul General of India, Atlanta.
We welcome your nominations for the following categories by January 5, 2026.
- Volunteer of the Year/Community Member of the Year
- Faculty Member of the Year
- Staff Member of the Year
- Student of the Year
- Alumni of the Year
- Community Group of the Year
Volunteer of the Year/Community Member of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding individual in the Central Florida community (and beyond) that has shown dedication to advancing the mission of The India Center, deepening engagement in the community. This award acknowledges contributions of time, talent, and resources that have broadened the awareness and understanding of contemporary India here in Central Florida and made a difference for UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- Notable and quantifiable service to their community via time, talent, and resources
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
Faculty Member of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding faculty member at UCF that has shown dedication to advancing the mission of The India Center, making a difference on campus and in the community. This award acknowledges contributions of time, talent, and resources that have broadened the awareness and understanding of contemporary India here in Central Florida and made a difference for UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- Must be a full-time faculty member at UCF (9 or 12 month faculty)
- Notable and quantifiable service to their community via time, talent, and resources
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
Staff Member of the Year
This award honors an exceptional staff member at UCF who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to advancing the mission of The India Center. The recipient has made a meaningful impact on campus and in the community through contributions of time, talent, and resources. This award recognizes efforts that have broadened awareness and understanding of contemporary India in Central Florida and positively influenced UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- Must be a full-time UCF staff member (non-faculty position)
- Demonstrated and measurable service to the UCF community through time, talent, and resources
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
- Actively supports initiatives that promote cultural awareness and engagement related to India
Student of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding student (currently enrolled) at UCF that has shown dedication to advancing the mission of The India Center, making a difference on campus and in the community. This award acknowledges contributions of time, talent, and resources that have broadened the awareness and understanding of contemporary India here in Central Florida and made a difference for UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- Student enrolled in good academic standing art UCF
- Notable and quantifiable service to the campus community
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
Alumni of the Year
This award honors a UCF alumnus or alumna who exemplifies the mission of The India Center in the community, has exceptional achievements, and maintained direct and meaningful involvement with their alma mater since graduating. Through their work, this individual should be advancing awareness and understanding of contemporary India here in Central Florida and made a difference for UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- UCF degree Holder
- Notable and quantifiable service to their community via time, talent, and resources
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
Community Group of the Year
This award recognizes an outstanding community group in the Central Florida area (or region) that has shown dedication to advancing the mission of The India Center and engaging members and colleagues in advancing understanding of India here in the U.S. This award acknowledges time, commitment, and positive contributions that have made a difference for UCF and its stakeholders.
Nomination Requirements
- Must be a legal nonprofit or faith organization based in the state of Florida.
- Notable and quantifiable service to their community via time, talent, and resources
- Exemplifies UCF’s College of Sciences Mission and Values
We welcome your nominations by January 5, 2026.