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Distinguished Alumni Award

Since 1936, the Wisconsin Alumni Association has been presenting the award to some of the most prestigious graduates of UW–Madison for their professional achievements, contributions to society, and support of the university. Past recipients include fashion icon Iris Apfel ’43, former Wisconsin senator Herb Kohl ’56, actor André De Shields ’70, and brain researcher Ann McKee ’75.

2025 Award Recipients

Past Award Recipients

Please note: the titles listed here represent the positions the honorees held at the time they received their awards. Many later went on to fill other prestigious roles. The Distinguished Alumni Award has undergone various name changes over the years, but each reflects a version of the same core recognition category.

Visiting Alumni Park has become a tradition for many Badgers. Now, in anticipation of the park’s 10th anniversary in 2027, we want to hear about your favorite UW traditions. Share your tradition.