Winners announced for 2025/2026 Augustana College Alumni Awards
The Augustana Alumni Association recognizes the achievements, contributions and service of alumni and friends of the college each year.
The association solicits nominations and recommends candidates to receive Alumni Association awards. Each award may be presented to one or more alumni.
The honorees will be recognized at the Founders Day Celebration on Friday, May 1, 2026, 5-8 p.m. Members of the Augustana community and their guests are invited to attend. Tickets to the ceremony cost $30 per person.
2025/2026 winners
Outstanding Achievement Award
The Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes the recipient’s achievement in their vocation.
Steven Hollingworth '80 is a global nonprofit leader specializing in microfinance and international development. He served as president and CEO of the Grameen Foundation and held senior leadership roles with CARE International, leading global operations and advancing strategies that improved the lives of millions worldwide. During a 40-year career, he focused on creating pathways out of poverty, particularly for women and underserved communities. His work has helped expand access to financial services, education and sustainable livelihoods across more than 70 countries.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award recognizes an individual or organization for work to promote diversity, equity and inclusion on campus or in the community.
Ladies of Vital Essence is an Augustana College-founded organization dedicated to fostering community, mentorship and leadership among women. For more than 40 years, the group has promoted diversity, equity and inclusion through programming and academic support and by creating spaces for connection and empowerment. Founded by Black women students, L.O.V.E. has built a lasting legacy of sisterhood and support on campus. Its members continue to lead and serve in their communities, carrying forward the organization’s mission beyond Augustana College.
Outstanding Service Award
The Outstanding Service Award recognizes a recipient's exemplary service to Augustana College or the honor reflected on Augustana by exceptional community service.
Kathryn Anderson '74 Janicek is a dedicated alumna whose longstanding service and philanthropy have made a lasting impact on Augustana College. She has served on the Alumni Board and continues her involvement through the Augustana Endowment Society, while also remaining an active presence at campus events and performances. Her commitment is reflected in both her leadership and generosity, including significant support and leadership for the Bergendoff Hall of Fine Arts renovation and the establishment of a scholarship for music students. Through her volunteerism, fundraising efforts and personal engagement with students and alumni, she has strengthened the Augustana College community and expanded opportunities for future generations.
Richard A. Swanson Humanitarian Award
The Richard A. Swanson Humanitarian Award recognizes the recipient’s service to the church, to Augustana and/or involvement with humanitarian social issues (e.g., addressing poverty, injustice or prejudice) on a local, state or national level.
Pastor Richard Priggie '74 served Augustana College as chaplain for more than two decades, guiding the spiritual life of the campus community through worship, mentorship and pastoral care. He created meaningful opportunities for reflection and dialogue, helping students navigate personal and vocational discernment while fostering an inclusive and compassionate environment. In addition to his campus leadership, he engaged with interfaith and community partners, bringing diverse voices and perspectives to Augustana College. His work helped shape the college’s Five Faith Commitments, emphasizing hospitality, justice and service. Through his preaching, teaching and lifelong connection with alumni, he has had a lasting impact on generations of students and the broader Augustana College community.
Honorary Alumna Award
The Honorary Alumnus/Alumna Award recognizes significant contributions to Augustana by a friend of the college who did not graduate from Augustana.
Beth Goodrich is a dedicated supporter and advocate for Augustana College.
For more than two decades, she has contributed through philanthropy, volunteerism and student engagement, including establishing a scholarship and actively participating in programs that connect alumni and students. She has been a consistent champion of the college’s mission, generously supporting initiatives that expand student opportunities. Through her involvement, she has built meaningful relationships across the campus community and inspired others to give back.
Viking Vocation Award
The Viking Vocation Award recognizes individuals, businesses and/or other organizations that support, contribute to and advance the career success of past, present or future students of Augustana College.
Arsal Shareef '15 is an engaged and passionate alumnus who supports career development at Augustana College through ongoing collaboration with faculty and students. He regularly serves as a guest panelist, offering insights and real-world perspectives that enhance students’ understanding of career pathways. Through thoughtful dialogue and mentorship, he helps students connect their academic experiences to professional opportunities. His continued involvement provides valuable networking connections and contributes meaningfully to student career preparation. He was also a founding member of the GOLD Council, a volunteer board dedicated to engaging young alumni after graduation. He led the Professional Development Committee, establishing the “After Augie” podcast and several other professional development initiatives.
GOLD & Bold Award
The GOLD and Bold Award recognizes alumni of the past decade who exemplify the spirit of Augustana College through service and leadership. Rooted in Augustana’s liberal arts tradition, this award honors graduates who use their talents, character, and energy to make a meaningful difference in their communities and professions. The GOLD & Bold award is sponsored and awarded by the GOLD Council.
Nic Giliberto '25 is a dedicated educator who exemplifies service, leadership and a commitment to student success as a high school math teacher. He supports a diverse student population by meeting students where they are, and providing individualized guidance and encouragement to help them build confidence and achieve academically. Beyond the classroom, he extends his impact as a junior varsity basketball coach and mentor, emphasizing teamwork, discipline and personal development. He has also demonstrated initiative by creating a training program that expands access to skill development and mentorship for students. Through his teaching, coaching and leadership, he empowers students to grow both academically and personally.
Kaitlyn MacDonald '19 Maize demonstrates transformative leadership and a profound commitment to fostering community as an educator and mentor at Georgetowne Middle School. As a member of the school’s Leadership Committee and director of the Student Council, she empowers her students to lead community service initiatives that have raised more than $3,000 for families at The Center for Prevention of Abuse. An advocate for student belonging, she founded the school’s dance team and coaches multiple sports while serving as a professional mentor to new faculty. After graduating from Augustana College, she earned her master’s in reading education from Western Illinois University, continuing her commitment to vocational excellence and service.
Shelly Summers '20 is a compassionate leader dedicated to serving refugee and
immigrant communities. In her role as a long-term services manager at World Relief Quad Cities, she helps families navigate the transition to life in the United States by connecting them with housing, employment, education and essential resources, while fostering a strong sense of belonging and community.Through her leadership and advocacy, she has made a meaningful impact on countless families, supporting them in both everyday needs and life-changing moments. Her work reflects a deep commitment to empathy, cultural understanding and service, as she empowers individuals and families to build stable, fulfilling lives in their new home.