Bernice Joseph Leadership Award

Each year, the Western Alliance of Community College Academic Leaders presents the Bernice Joseph Leadership Award. The Bernice Joseph Leadership Award recognizes Alliance members who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing student access and promoting student success. Specifically, nominees for this award have worked to address barriers and implement innovative solutions through new or existing programs, projects, or initiatives on their campus.

Named in honor of Bernice Joseph, who served as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and was a founding member of the Alliance, was a visionary leader whose boundless energy, commitment to accessible, high-quality education, and collaborative spirit were key to nurturing a culture of innovation and inclusivity. This award honors leaders who carry forward their mission of transforming postsecondary education for the better.

Nominations for the 2026 Bernice Joseph Leadership Award are due by November 21, 2025. Please note that self-nominations and team nominations (i.e., more than one nominee representing a particular program, project, or initiative) are accepted.

Submit a nomination here.

The winner(s) will be notified by January 23, 2026, and will be invited to the 2026 Alliance Annual Meeting taking place April 15-17, 2026, at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, WY. In addition to one free registration to the annual meeting as well as a travel reimbursement (up to $1,500), the winner(s) will be recognized with a highlight in the annual meeting program and an opportunity to present a session on their work.

Past Winners Include: