Selection into Scarlet Key
Scarlet Key Award
Recipients of the Scarlet Key Award are students in their senior year who have exhibited exceptional leadership during their years at Boston University. Scarlet Key selection is based on excellence in University student activities and organizations, commitment to the individual’s School or College; and scholarship.
Only a Boston University faculty member or administrator may nominate students. Students may not apply for consideration on their own.
Nomination letters should be no longer than one typewritten page and must accompany a copy of the official nomination form.
When considering a student for candidacy, nominators are encouraged to reflect on the following examples of criteria that have been considered in the past when evaluating the quality of a nominee’s leadership:
- Has the student developed or founded a program, organization, or tradition while at Boston University?
- How has the student’s work as a leader enhanced the quality of life on campus?
- Has the student participated in service to the external community as a representative of Boston University?
- Has the student represented Boston University for national recognition, e.g., academic or athletic honors?
- How does the student stand out as a leader among other leaders?
- What examples of the student’s personal character can you provide with the nomination?
- In what ways has the student brought honor or recognition to Boston University and the Class of 2010?
Honorary Scarlet Key
The Honorary Scarlet Key Award is presented to alumni, faculty, staff, trustees, and members of the community-at-large who, during their time at Boston University, have especially influenced the intellectual and personal development of our students.
The Honorary Scarlet Key Award dates back almost as far as the Scarlet Key itself. Past recipients include:
- Dean of Women Elsbeth Melville
- Dean of Sargent College George Makechnie
- Dean of Men Staton Curtis
- Hockey Coach John “Jack” Kelley
- Presidents Daniel Marsh, Harold Case, John Silber, Jon Westling, and Aram Chobanian
- President Robert A. Brown
Please note that the Honorary Scarlet Key Award is separate and distinct from the Scarlet Key Award, which is presented to graduating undergraduate seniors.
Nomination letters should be no longer than one typewritten page and must accompany a copy of the official nomination form. Letters of nomination should include examples of the nominee’s outstanding contributions to the extracurricular life of the University’s students.