Recognition Awards

Order of the Phoenix

Certificate and Lapel Pin

Order of the Lion

Certificate and Lapel Pin

Order of Minerva

Certificate and Lapel Pin

Shield of Brotherhood

Certificate, Lapel Pin, and Medallion

Merit Key

Certificate, Lapel Pin, and Tie Clip

Distinguished Service Award

Framed Certificate, Lapel Pin, and Engraved Medallion

Order of DeVotie

Certificate and Lapel Pin

William McKinley Outstanding Achievement Award

Framed Certificate, Medallion, and a Paperweight

Order of the Violet

Certificate and Necklace

Recognition of achievement and dedication to the Fraternity is important. Members who have distinguished themselves on various levels of the Fraternity or within their professions bring honor not only to themselves, but also to Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Our organization realizes the value in acknowledging exceptional service, and the presentation of an award of recognition is a primary way to show that appreciation.

The awards and certificates described in this form are for individual members. Individuals, chapters, alumni, provinces, and others are encouraged to nominate alumni for these honors. All awards are processed by the Fraternity Service Center.

Instructions

  • Submit one Award Nomination Form per person or award.
  • Select your preferred shipping method and choose a certificate holder, if necessary.
  • If you have any questions about recognition awards, please email awards@sae.net

Recognition Award Nomination

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I determine a brother's eligibility for an award?

Award eligibility is based on a brother’s service to the Fraternity, standing within SAE, and previously received recognition awards. Awards must be earned in a specific order. For example, a brother must receive the Order of the Lion before the Order of Minerva, and the Order of Minerva before the Shield of Brotherhood.

We are currently developing a way to view award eligibility through the SAE Portal. In the meantime, please contact awards@sae.net, and our staff will review our records and help determine eligibility.

What if I don't know which award is appropriate?

If you’re unsure which award best fits an individual’s service, contact awards@sae.net before submitting a nomination. Our staff can review Fraternity records, verify eligibility, and help identify the most appropriate recognition.

If you submit a nomination for an award for which the individual is not eligible, our team will contact you before processing your order.

How far in advance should I submit an award nomination?

We recommend submitting nominations at least 14 business days before your desired presentation date. This allows adequate time for eligibility verification, award production, shipping, and any necessary follow-up questions.

Which awards require review for eligibility?

All award nominations are reviewed by staff to verify eligibility and ensure the nominee is in good standing with the Fraternity.

  • Additional review is required for certain awards:
    • Shield of Brotherhood – Supreme Council
    • Merit Key – Supreme Council
    • William McKinley Outstanding Achievement Award – Supreme Council
    • Distinguished Service Award (DSA) – Submit to ESR Steve Mitchell via email (smitchell@sae.net) *This award is typically brought to attention on behalf of The Supreme Council

Who can nominate someone for a recognition award?

Anyone may submit a nomination. We encourage brothers, chapters, and alumni associations to recognize individuals whose service and achievements deserve acknowledgment.

What if I'm having trouble with the nomination form?

If you encounter an error while submitting a nomination, please email awards@sae.net and include a screenshot of the issue, if possible. Our staff can assist with processing your nomination and resolving any technical problems.

When is a good time to present an award?

Awards may be presented whenever it is most meaningful for the recipient. While many awards are presented during Founders’ Day celebrations, alumni events, chapter anniversaries, or other special occasions, they can also be mailed directly to an individual if no event is planned.

What happens after I submit a nomination?

Once your nomination is submitted, our team will review it to verify eligibility and ensure all required information has been provided. If additional details are needed, we will contact you directly.

If everything is in order, the nomination will be sent to our printing partner for production. After the award is produced, it will be shipped to the address provided on the nomination form. Most awards arrive within a few days of shipment. Expedited shipping is also available for purchase through the nomination form if you need your award sooner.