Eleanor Swanson says she was shocked and “absolutely humbled,” to be chosen as a recipient of one of Memorial’s highest honours for alumni in 2013.

“You don’t expect to receive an award for work that gives you such pleasure and feeling of accomplishment,” she said. “I guess that is why I was so surprised but certainly grateful.”

The master of education graduate received the J.D. Eaton Alumni Award for her leadership and outstanding contributions to Memorial during last year’s 32nd Alumni Tribute Awards.

Memorial is now looking to honour other exceptional graduates such as Ms. Swanson.

Nominations have opened for 2014’s Alumni Tribute Awards. In total, there are four categories: Alumni of the Year; Outstanding Community Service; Alumni Horizon for achievements before the age of 35; and the J.D. Eaton Alumni Award. Recipients will be recognized during a gala on Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland.

As a longtime volunteer, Ms. Swanson has deep connections to Memorial. She was twice elected, as well as appointed, to the Board of Regents. Her current term ends in November. As a regent, she’s served as member, vice-chair and board representative on the successful Dare To fundraising campaign, while sitting on other committees.

She’s also established four scholarships at Memorial – two after her late husband, Greg Campbell, for students pursuing business; one after her father, Eric A. Swanson, for students studying earth sciences; and she’s set up a scholarship for music students in her name.

"The opportunities to connect with students and celebrate their successes is one of the highlights of my life with Memorial,” she said proudly.

Ms. Swanson encourages others to nominate outstanding alumni.

“Alumni are key to the university’s reputation and they provide support in many ways,” she added. “The contribution is not usually one big effort but the accumulation of many smaller efforts of time and resources. It’s an opportunity for inspiration and celebration around Memorial.”

Nomination forms, plus guidelines and other information, can be found online. The deadline for nominations is Monday, June 30.