July 24, 2026
5:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Hotel Polaris
Generations Ballroom
Distinguished Graduate Awards
The Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes U.S. Air Force Academy Graduates who have set themselves apart by making a lifetime of significant contributions to the nation, the Academy, and their communities. The Association & Foundation is proud to honor Mr. Worth W. "Bill" Boisture '67, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Susan Helms '80 and Gen. (Ret.) Tod D. Wolters '82 as the 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award winners.
Additional Award Presentations
The Association & Foundation have the pleasure of presenting two additional award categories on this prestigious evening: the Leadership Achievement Award and the Young Alumni Excellence Award, and the Sullenberger Award for Courage.
The Leadership Achievement Award recognizes graduates 16 to 39 years from graduation who have distinguished themselves by obtaining a high level of professional accomplishment and demonstrating excellence in all they do. They possess high standards of integrity and character to positively reflect and enhance the prestige of the United States Air Force Academy.
The Young Alumni Excellence Award honors graduates of the Academy from the last 15 years. The award is presented based on the recipient's outstanding professional achievement and contributions to the community, whether in military or civilian life.
The Sullenberger Award for Courage recognizes graduates who have demonstrated exceptional performance through a singular act or a series of events over a short period of time, displaying courage, leadership, and achievement that far exceed expectations under the circumstances. These acts of bravery may occur in military, civilian, business, or community-related settings and should reflect positively on the Academy while demonstrating the values, character, and training fostered by the institution.
Event Details
WHEN | Friday, July 24, 2026
WHERE | Hotel Polaris, Generations Ballroom, 8989 N. Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80921
5:30 p.m. | Cocktail Reception begins on Eagles Peak Lawn
6:00 p.m. | Young Alumni Excellence Award and Leadership Achievement Award Reception
6:45 p.m. | Distinguished Graduate awards ceremony takes place in the Generations Ballroom
Dinner to follow program
9:00 p.m. | Event concludes
MILITARY DRESS | Mess Dress
CIVILIAN DRESS | Black Tie or Business Suit/Formal Attire
DEADLINE TO REGISTER | Monday, July 13, 2026
Select your meal during the registration process.
Please review your confirmation email.
For more information, contact events@usafa.org.