The Madonna Medal represents the highest honor bestowed upon a graduate by Mount Mary University and the Alumnae Association. Awards are given to highlight a graduate’s long-standing commitment in one of three areas:

• Professional Excellence
• Community Service
• Service to the University or the Alumnae Association.

This is evidenced by outstanding and unique accomplishments that separate them from their colleagues. Their nomination demonstrates the ways in which their lives and/or career reflect the Mount Mary values of competence, community, compassion, and commitment.

A Madonna Medal recipient may be given no more than one award in each category. Final award categories are determined by the Awards Committee. 

The Tower Award recognizes the accomplishments of up to two graduates within the first fifteen years of their graduations. The award honors a graduate whose unique accomplishments have distinguished them from their colleagues.  Nominees have demonstrated excellence in their work or volunteerism and show great potential for future growth. Their nomination demonstrates ways in which their lives and/or career reflect the Mount Mary values of competence, community, compassion, and commitment. 

• Competence – a commitment to excellence that is reflected in the person’s professional expertise as evidenced through personal conduct, work progress, policies or services
• Community – a shared sense of purpose reflected in a welcoming attitude toward diverse populations, evidenced by service to others, good listening skills, and a devotion to the goals of the group
• Compassion – an overt expression of concern, empathy, and purposeful action that results in advocacy, respect and/or service for others
• Commitment – a deliberate, persistent approach to advancing human dignity by encouraging personal development, professional standards based on vision, mission, and values