Alumni Recognition

We honor our outstanding alumni

We are proud to recognize our O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs graduates who have distinguished themselves in their careers and who serve as accomplished role models for today’s O’Neill School students and the greater community as leaders for the greater good with a variety of awards, including the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Our 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award honorees

headshot

Mark Elwood, BSPA’87

Mark Elwood is the board chair at Elwood Staffing, a privately owned corporation and leading provider of talent-based solutions and actionable workforce intelligence. He has served in various roles at the company since 1987, helping it to become one of the most successful businesses in Indiana. Elwood is also an engaged community member who has served on numerous nonprofit boards and supported major initiatives around youth, animal care, mental health, substance abuse prevention, and the arts.

 

headshot

Melina Kennedy, MSES’95

Melina Kennedy is the chief executive officer of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, where she facilitates strategic collaboration between the executive leaders of corporations, philanthropic foundations, and universities to advance inclusive prosperity. Previously, Kennedy worked in law, government, and business, including serving as deputy mayor for the City of Indianapolis. At the O’Neill School, she is a member of the Dean’s Council.

Nominate an alum

Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral alumni are eligible for this award—the most honorable alumni distinction bestowed by the O’Neill School. Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis. Award winners are annually selected in early spring.

Submit a nomination