The Native Excellence Awards serve to amplify and celebrate individuals who demonstrate Indigenous excellence. Presented during the Native Excellence Gala, these awards honor those whose leadership inspires, uplifts, and helps pave the path forward for the Indigenous community.
Award Categories and Recognition
The awards program recognizes achievements across several distinct categories. The Knowledge Keeper award is presented to an individual responsible for practicing, learning, reflecting, and cultivating Indigenous ways of knowing through traditional knowledge.
The Changemaker award honors individuals who serve as champions for the advancement of Indigenous communities by leading with creativity and compassion to create transformational change. For those with long-term impact, the Lifetime Achievement award is bestowed upon individuals who have served the Indigenous community for over 20 years at local, state, or national levels.
Educational and Alumni Awards
Educational and institutional excellence is also recognized through awards for Native Excellence in PK-12 Education, Native Excellence in Higher Education, and Native Excellence at the U, which honors University of Utah staff or faculty. Additionally, the Native Excellence Alumni Award is presented by the University of Utah American Indian Alumni Chapter to an alumnus who engages graduates through professional development and connection with the university network.
Community and Partner Recognition
Community-focused recognition includes the Native Excellence in the Community award, given to individuals making significant contributions through leadership and partnerships. The Community Partner Award is presented to organizations that strengthen community-engaged learning and foster partnerships between the local community and the University of Utah.
Health Equity Award Details
Furthermore, the Native Excellence in Health Equity award recognizes an individual, group, or organization that promotes health equity across Indigenous communities by championing programs and policies that transform access to health and social services.
Recent 2025 Award Honorees
Recent honorees from the 2025 Native Excellence Awards include Larry Echo Hawk for Lifetime Achievement, Jeanie Groves as Knowledge Keeper, and Dominique Pablito as Changemaker. Other 2025 recipients include Dr. Harold Chuck Foster for the Community Partner Award and Wallita Ranger for Native Excellence in Health Equity.
