About the Award
The Order of the Gladiator is the highest lifetime honor bestowed by American Public University System (APUS). It recognizes extraordinary individuals who embody the spirit of a Gladiator—relentless in pursuit, resilient in purpose, and resolute in service. More than a recognition, it is a legacy: honoring leaders whose bold achievements and global impact continue to advance the University’s mission long after their formal ties to APUS have ended. These honorees reflect our enduring commitment to foster lifelong contributions that strengthen communities both locally and globally.
Eligibility Considerations
To be considered for induction into the Order of the Gladiator, which is an honor reserved to a maximum of five honorees per year, nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Be living at the time of nomination.
- Posthumous inductees will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Nominee must be an alumnus/alumna, former faculty member, administrator, staff member, or prior Trustee of the American Public University System.
- Nominee must have concluded their formal affiliation with APUS in good standing (e.g., graduation, retirement, or completion of service) and have a record of personal and professional integrity that reflects the mission, vision, and values of APUS, including service and lifelong learning.
- Nominee must have demonstrated clear and meaningful contributions and/or service that have positively impacted communities, industries, or global causes—either directly or through leadership roles.
- Nominee must demonstrate excellence, leadership, or innovation in their professional field, public service, or military service.
- Nominee must be recognized as a reputable member of their public and professional communities, exemplifying qualities consistent with the honor and dignity of the Order.
Eligibility Considerations
To be considered for induction into the Order of the Gladiator, which is an honor reserved to a maximum of five honorees per year, nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Be living at the time of nomination.
- Posthumous inductees will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Nominee must be an alumnus/alumna, former faculty member, administrator, staff member, or prior Trustee of the American Public University System.
- Nominee must have concluded their formal affiliation with APUS in good standing (e.g., graduation, retirement, or completion of service) and have a record of personal and professional integrity that reflects the mission, vision, and values of APUS, including service and lifelong learning.
- Nominee must have demonstrated clear and meaningful contributions and/or service that have positively impacted communities, industries, or global causes—either directly or through leadership roles.
- Nominee must demonstrate excellence, leadership, or innovation in their professional field, public service, or military service.
- Nominee must be recognized as a reputable member of their public and professional communities, exemplifying qualities consistent with the honor and dignity of the Order.
Nomination Process
Nominations must be submitted by those familiar with the nominee's contributions; self-nominations will not be accepted. Each nomination should include a comprehensive summary of the nominee's achievements and impact, supported by relevant documentation, testimonials, or other evidence.
Please note, incomplete nomination packets will not be considered but may be carried forward to the following year at the discretion of the selection committee, pending receipt of missing documentation.
The deadline for submissions for each year will be January 31. Submissions received after that date will be carried forward and considered for a subsequent induction period.
Be a part of APUS History!
2026 marks the inaugural year for the Order of the Gladiator Award.
For nominees, it’s a moment to be recognized among the most forward-thinking minds in their field. For winners, it’s a career-defining milestone that affirms their vision, amplifies their influence, and opens new doors for collaboration and discovery.
Nominate someone today and check back in May for a list of nominees and winners!