Distinguished Alumni

The Forest Hills Alumni Association (FHAA) established the Distinguished Alumni Award to recognize graduates of Forest Hills School District and its predecessor schools who have achieved exceptional accomplishments and made significant contributions to their profession, community, or society.  These individuals exemplify the values of Excellence, Tradition, and Pride that define Forest Hills and serve as role models who inspire current students and fellow alumni.

The following proposal outlines the eligibility guidelines, nomination procedures, selection criteria, and evaluation rubric for the Distinguished Alumni Award. This structure ensures a fair, transparent, and consistent process that honors the legacy and integrity of the award.

I. Eligibility Guidelines

To be considered for the Distinguished Alumni Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a graduate of Forest Hills School District or one of its predecessor schools that merged in 1966.
   
   
2. May include graduates of the Greater Johnstown Career and Technology Center who attended Forest Hills prior to their enrollment there.
   
   
3. Be at least ten (10) years post-graduation at the time of nomination.
   
   
4. Demonstrate significant and sustained achievement, service, or impact in their professional or community life.
   
   
5. Be of good moral character and represent the values of Forest Hills.
   
   
6. Nominators may be any alumnus, community member, or FHAA member; however, nominators may not serve on the selection committee.
   
   
7. The Distinguished Alumni Selection Committee will recommend up to four honorees every two years for FHAA approval.  Deceased alumni may also be considered for induction.

II. Nomination Procedures

Each nomination must include:

• A completed Nomination Form (available on the FHSD website).
  
  
• A biographical summary or résumé of the nominee’s professional and community accomplishments.
  
  
• A narrative statement (maximum 500 words) describing why the nominee embodies the spirit of Forest Hills and the Distinguished Alumni designation.
  
  
• Up to three supporting materials (letters of support, press releases, certificates, or other evidence of impact).

Nominations are accepted from January through March of even-numbered years. The FHAA Distinguished Alumni Selection Committee reviews all materials and recommends final honorees for approval.

III. Selection Criteria and Descriptors

Nominees will be evaluated across six categories, each weighted according to its alignment with the FHAA mission: Connect, Support, Celebrate, Empower, Inspire.

Category	Descriptor
1. Professional Achievement	Demonstrated excellence, innovation, leadership, or recognition in their career field, showing distinction at the local, state, national, or international level.
2. Community and Forest Hills Service	Significant contributions through civic engagement, volunteerism, mentorship, philanthropy, or direct service to the wider community and/or Forest Hills School District or Alumni Association.  Examples of direct service may include mentoring current students, providing career shadowing or work-based learning opportunities, volunteering at school or Alumni Association events, assisting with student scholarship programs, serving on committees, or participating in Alumni Association meetings (either virtually or in person). Alumni may also contribute by sharing career experiences with classes, supporting district initiatives through professional expertise, coordinating reunion activities, or promoting Forest Hills pride and connections within their own communities.
3. Character and Integrity	Embodies the highest standards of ethical behavior, professionalism, humility, and personal integrity; serves as a role model to others.
4. Inspirational Impact	Recognized for motivating others through example, leadership, perseverance, or advocacy. Demonstrates the ability to uplift, mentor, and positively influence others—especially youth, colleagues, or community members—to pursue excellence and service.
5. Legacy and Long-Term Influence	Leaves a lasting mark through leadership, mentorship, innovation, or philanthropy that continues to positively influence others over time.