Formerly given by the University's Undergraduate Alumni Association, the award honors the legacy of Cleveland's Newton D. Baker, who urged everyone he met to volunteer time, talent and service to those in need.

Baker was the 37th mayor of Cleveland, served as Secretary of War under President Woodrow Wilson and was a major supporter of Cleveland College. In 1916, he and two partners founded Baker Hostetler, one of the nation's top 100 law firms with more than 700 attorneys serving clients around the world.

The Newton D. Baker Distinguished Service Award honors the lifetime legacy and community endeavors of Newton D. Baker, who urged everyone he met to volunteer time, talent, and service to those in need.  This award recognizes significant service to the university by any alumnus or alumna, staff member, faculty, or friend of the university who has given their time, expertise, or leadership generously, thereby ensuring the prolonged welfare of the institution for generations to come. 

Submit a nomination

Eligibility Criteria for Nominees:

• Must be a graduate, staff member, faculty, or friend of the university.
  
• Must exemplify service to the community through service to Case Western Reserve University.
  
• Must honor the legacy of Cleveland's Newton D. Baker, a noted public servant and community leader.

Nomination Process:
Members of The Alumni Association Board of Directors determine the recipients from nominations that are received each year by the July 15th deadline. All nominations received are considered active for three years.