Recognizing Dragons
At Minnesota State University Moorhead, we strive to recognize and appreciate the people who make a difference.
Every day, members of our Dragon community contribute through their dedication, service, leadership, and care for others. Whether you're celebrating a colleague's everyday contributions, recognizing someone who created an exceptional experience, or nominating an employee for a university award, there are several ways to show appreciation and honor outstanding work.
Dragon P.R.I.D.E.
Proudly Recognizing the Impact of our Dragon Employees
Dragon Pride is a peer-to-peer recognition program that gives faculty and staff an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of their colleagues.
Whether someone offered support, demonstrated teamwork, provided exceptional service, or embodied our shared values, Dragon Pride is an easy way to say thank you and recognize the positive impact colleagues have across campus.
Best for: Everyday appreciation and recognition
Who can be nominated: Faculty and staff
Recognition includes: Dilly bar coupon, Employee News feature
Dragon Difference
Recognizing those who create exceptional experiences for others
The Dragon Difference award honors members of the Dragon community whose excellence, service, and heart make a meaningful difference for students, colleagues, alumni, and our broader community.
Recipients are individuals who go beyond expectations to create connections, solve problems, inspire others, and help make Minnesota State Moorhead a place where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. Selected throughout the year and recognized by President Tim Downs.
Best for: Acts of service, leadership, impact, and community-building
Who can be nominated: Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and members of the Dragon community
Recognition includes: Presidential recognition, certificate, one-month all-zone parking pass, athletic tickets, university-wide storytelling
Dragon Excellence Awards
An annual celebration of notable achievement
Presented annually during the spring Celebration of our Dragon Employees, the Dragon Excellence Awards recognize faculty and staff who have made outstanding contributions to Minnesota State Moorhead.
Award categories:
- Academic Excellence & Innovation Award
- Student Engagement Award
- Collaboration Award
- Community Engagement Award
Best for: Significant and sustained contributions aligned with university strategic priorities
Who can be nominated: Faculty and staff
Recognition includes: Commemorative award and formal university announcement
Nominations Period Mid-January through Mid-March
Additional Recognition Opportunities
MSUM Foundation Awards
Each year, the MSUM Foundation honors alumni and friends whose leadership, service, and achievement reflect the best of Minnesota State Moorhead.
Honorees are celebrated at the President’s Dinner during Homecoming or during the Dragon Legacy Luncheons, which are held in the spring for each of the university's four colleges.
Minnesota State Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence
The Minnesota State Board of Trustees Awards for Excellence recognize faculty and staff across the Minnesota State system for outstanding achievements in teaching, service, leadership, and student success.