Every year, Cornell Pride (formerly CUGALA) has honored an exemplary LGBTQIA+ alumnus or noted Cornell affiliate with the annual Steven W. Siegel '68 Award. Steve Siegel '68 was CUGALA’s tireless leader for more than 25 years, encouraging alumni to get involved and serving as an alumni voice for LGBT students. Steve was a devoted Cornellian and received the Frank H.T. Rhodes Exemplary Alumni Service Award, becoming the first openly gay recipient of the award. He passed away in January 2012, leaving behind a strong legacy for LGBT alumni. Cornell Pride has recently expanded the awards program to honor the following categories:
• Siegel Award: Honors a Cornell alumnus who embodies these values of service and LGBT advocacy.
• Young Alumni Achievement Award: Recognizing a young alumnus who exemplifies the spirit of the Siegel Award within 15 years out of graduating.
• Student Leader Award: Elevates the advocacy and work of a graduating student leader on Cornell’s campus who is contributing to the LGBTQ+ community.