University Honors and Distinctions

High cumulative G.P.A.

Baccalaureate students who have achieved high cumulative grade point averages receive gold medallions with colored satin ribbons. Gold ribbons signify summa cum laude (minimum cumulative of 3.8), purple ribbons signify magna cum laude (minimum cumulative of 3.5 admitted before Fall 2015; minimum cumulative of 3.6 admitted Fall 2015 or later), and purple and gold ribbons signify cum laude (minimum cumulative of 3.3 admitted before Fall 2015; minimum cumulative 3.4 admitted Fall 2015 or later).

Phi Kappa Phi

Members of Phi Kappa Phi receive white satin ribbons decorated with an ancient Greek pattern to symbolize the classical roots of the society. Phi Kappa Phi honors outstanding academic achievement among undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty members.

Honors Program

Graduates of the University’s Honors Program receive medals signifying their achievement of the program competencies of leadership, research, and global citizenship. The mission of the Honors Program is to provide students with exceptional learning opportunities, mentoring relationships, and a community of scholars that foster their development as future leaders in a global society.

International Scholars

International Scholars receive a purple and gold sash with a global emblem. These graduates have gained unique global perspectives either by studying abroad or joining our university from other nations.

Maverick Army ROTC

Members of the Maverick Army Reserve Officer Training Program (ROTC) receive the red, blue and white cord. The Maverick Army ROTC program trains, develops, and commissions students to become 2nd Lieutenants in the Army Reserve, National Guard and the Active Army. The graduating students signify the dedication, leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving required to become future leaders in the Army.

Undergraduate Research Symposium

In recognition of their scholarly achievement, each student who presents at the Undergraduate Research Symposium is awarded a medal. A solid green ribbon is in recognition of participation at the URC while a green and gold ribbon highlights recipients of the Foundation Awards.

Presidential Scholars

Each year, Minnesota State University, Mankato seeks incoming first-year and transfer students who demonstrate top academic performance, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to community involvement. Funding for Presidential Scholarships comes from businesses, estates and individuals throughout Minnesota and the nation. Minnesota State Mankato honors graduates of the Presidential Scholarship program.

Jacob B. Dougall, Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering

Jessica Wimp, Bachelor of Science, Biology

Kylie Hoese, Bachelor of Science, Alcohol and Drug Studies

Caita Pierson, Bachelor of Science, Social Work

Madelyn Backes, Bachelor of Science, Biology