Sun Devil Award for Service

Congratulations to our faculty and staff for their service to ASU.

This length of service award recognizes benefits-eligible academic professionals, faculty and staff for continued commitment to ASU. Employee service is recognized in five-year increments of employment, such as 5, 10, 15, or 20 years, through over 50 years of service. 

• Service awards are calculated by fiscal year, such as employees who reach a milestone between July 1 and June 30. 

• The service award program has no affiliation with the employee’s retirement program, which is calculated differently. 

• This award program uses the benefits eligibility date to determine the years of service, not the original hire date or seniority date. 

• This award is only for service to ASU and does not include service from the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University. There may be some exceptions to ABOR individuals.

• All benefits-eligible employees who reach a milestone year will receive a numeral acrylic.
  • Acrylics are delivered to a department or unit contact for distribution. Email Talent Development to find out who the point of contact is for your area. 
  • Acrylics are customized for employees with 20 years of service or more; acrylics are not personalized for five to 15 years. 

• Benefits-eligible employees who complete at least 20 years of continuous service can also select a gift. 

   

  • Eligible employees will receive a special congratulatory email with a catalog link in November and have 90 days to respond. You can choose to decline.
  • The gifts vary from jewelry, home décor, small electronics and more. 
  • Gifts are delivered to the employee’s address of choice. 
  • You must order your gift during the fiscal year of your anniversary for inclusion in that year’s award cycle.  
  • OHR cannot guarantee gift availability for employees who miss their designated award cycle or make a request years later.

ASU celebrates benefits-eligible faculty, staff and retirees at 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of continuous service at a ceremony with the university president. The ceremony is typically held late spring.

Download our Sun Devil Service Award poster. Help us promote and recognize the outstanding service provided by our colleagues.

Recognizing an employee’s service is more than just presenting an award — it’s about making them feel truly valued. A well-thought-out presentation can have a lasting impact and deepen their connection to Arizona State University. 

Steps for planning a meaningful recognition event 

1. Plan the celebration: Determine the scope and tone of the event. Will it be formal or casual? Team-based or larger-scale? 
2. Choose a time and location: Consider convenience and comfort, and select a date and venue that works well for the employee and the team. 
3. Obtain the service award or gift: Ensure you have the appropriate acrylic award or milestone gift ready beforehand. 
4. Arrange for refreshments: Light snacks or beverages can make the event feel more festive and welcoming. 
5. Send invitations: Invite team members, colleagues, and others who know and appreciate the employee. 
6. Gather supervisor input: Ask the employee’s supervisor for positive insights or anecdotes to include in the presentation. 
7. Consider employee preferences: Tailor the recognition to suit individual personalities. Does the employee enjoy public recognition, or would they prefer something more low-key with their team? 

What to include in a thoughtful presentation

Make the award presentation personal and meaningful by sharing specific details about the employee:

• Pronounce their name correctly.
• Mention their ASU anniversary date and years of service.
• Include their current job title and responsibilities.
• Highlight their dedication and consistent contributions to ASU.
• Share accomplishments and impactful contributions.
• Connect their work to department and university goals.

How to present awards

Your presentation should celebrate the recipient in a sincere and uplifting way. Recognize their achievements and highlight how their work supports the university’s mission. Encourage peer involvement to strengthen team spirit and create a sense of community. 

Above all, ensure the employee feels appreciated, respected and proud to be part of ASU.