Each year, DeSales University proudly celebrates alumni who embody the values and spirit of our community. Through professional excellence, dedicated service, and personal integrity, these individuals truly live out our guiding principle:
The Alumni Awards honor those whose achievements and character have made a meaningful impact—both within their fields and in the broader community. In addition to recognizing long-standing contributions, the event highlights emerging leaders who, within a decade of graduation, are already shaping the future and upholding the legacy of DeSales.
The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes an outstanding member of the DeSales University alumni community whose achievements have stretched far beyond campus and inspired many individuals along the way. This award is given to an alumnus or alumna with a strong commitment to their profession, their family, and their alma mater.
The Alumni Service Award recognizes an alumnus or alumna who has demonstrated extraordinary service to DeSales University, through their time, talent, or treasure. The recipient aids in furthering DeSales University’s mission of “energizing students to be who they are and be that well.”
The Salesian Spirit Award recognizes an alumnus or alumna who models his/her life after the spirit and spirituality of teachings of St. Francis de Sales and best personifies DeSales University’s core values of gratitude, gentleness, humility, hospitality, and/or wisdom. The recipient is someone who puts others before him/herself, gives back to his/her community, and embodies these values in real practical, visible ways of daily living.
The Young Alumni Achievement Award recognizes an alumni or alumna who has graduated within the last 10 years and has notable accomplishments in his/her life. This award is given to an alumnus or alumna with a strong commitment to their profession, their family, and their alma mater.
The Young Alumni Service Award recognizes an alumnus or alumna who has graduated within the last 10 years and demonstrated extraordinary service to DeSales University, through their time, talent, or treasure. The recipient aids in furthering DeSales University’s mission of “energizing students to be who they are and be that well.”
The Young Alumni Salesian Spirit Award recognizes an alumnus or alumna who has graduated within the past 10 years and models his/her life after the spirit and spirituality of teachings of St. Francis de Sales and best personifies DeSales University’s core values of gratitude, gentleness, humility, hospitality, and/or wisdom. The recipient is someone who puts others before him/herself, gives back to his/her community, and embodies these values in real practical, visible ways of daily living.
The Dr. John “Coach” Compardo Impact Award recognizes a singular member of the alumni community or an entire sports team from DeSales University’s past or present. Recipients are chosen based on their impact both on and off of the field, court, track, etc. The individual or team chosen must have or have had an impact on the entire culture of DeSales Athletics. Coach Compardo laid the foundation for not only athletic success but also academic and sportsmanship success. The recipient(s) must continue to lay that foundation.
Nominate an outstanding alumni today and help us recognize those who inspire, lead, and reflect the heart of DeSales.
You may only nominate one person per award, but you are welcome to nominate multiple people across different categories. You do not have to be an alumni to submit a nomination.
Join us on Friday, December 5 as we come together to celebrate the 2025 recipients of the DeSales Alumni Awards. Event registration coming soon.
