Spark Awards

The 2024-25 SPARK Awards application has closed. Check back in Spring 2026 for the next application round.

Spark Award for Dedication to Belonging
This award honors a chapter that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. The Spark Award for Dedication to Belonging recognizes efforts that go beyond the expected to build community, create spaces of inclusivity, and help all members feel seen, supported, and valued.

2024-25 SPARK Award for Dedication to Belonging Recipient

UNC Greensboro

“The Study-A-Thon is a three-hour-long study session where members are encouraged to join us to study, fellowship, and eat! We buy pizza and drinks, as well as invite both members and other UNCG students to join us! As one of our highly anticipated events for the semester, we tend to get a lot of traction during this time. Our members love to come out to Study-A-Thon, as we strive to create a welcoming environment for students during more stressful times of the semester (midterms, finals, etc.). Study-A-Thon is always a great hit with our community!”

“…as a chapter, we aim to hit multiple targets regarding a broad span of topics to cover. As not only an academic achievement, but an all-around wellness journey, our ALD Chapter wants to find ways to connect with our community outside of just academics. We also open up suggestions for members to potentially collaborate with us for events such as chapter meetings and study nights, aiming to invite other opinions for what they want to see in our chapter!”

“By fostering open communication, consistent outreach, and inclusive programming, we've created a welcoming environment where members feel seen, valued, and empowered to contribute. Our officers prioritize building personal connections with members through intentional interactions at meetings, personalized messages, and a consistent presence at campus events. These efforts have significantly increased member turnout and participation, not just in service initiatives, but in social and professional development events as well. One standout outcome has been a noticeable rise in member retention and leadership interest. Many members have expressed how officer approachability and transparency encouraged them to stay active and even pursue leadership roles themselves.”

Application Process

Chapters applying for this award should document specific programs, initiatives, or events that intentionally promoted a sense of belonging among members. Whether through mentorship opportunities, inclusive social gatherings, collaborative service projects, or awareness campaigns, we want to see how your chapter has lit the spark of connection and inclusion within your community. Chapters will be required to complete a template event/program “how-to” to be shared on our website for other chapters to replicate. Visuals from the event/program will also need to be submitted - a flyer or social media post that was used to promote the program, and pictures from the actual event.

Complete the form (available in April) by June 1 to submit your chapter’s application.

Spark Award for Dedication to Belonging Questions:

  1. Describe a specific program, event, or initiative your chapter implemented to foster inclusivity and build a sense of belonging. What was the goal, and how was it received by members?

  2. How does your chapter ensure that all members—regardless of background or identity—feel welcomed, supported, and valued throughout the year?

  3. What impact have your community-building efforts had on chapter culture and member engagement? Please share any feedback, outcomes, or lessons learned.


Contact ALD Headquarters at ald@nationalald.org with any questions.