Senior Prize Application

Each year outstanding seniors in the College of Fine Arts are recognized through the Donald McRae (former CFA Dean) award for the Outstanding Senior.  One outstanding senior from each department/program is selected who will then compete for the Donald McRae award.  The award is commonly referred to as the Senior Prize.

Completed applications and supporting documents must be received no later than Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Late applications are not considered.

Eligibility: Students who have graduated or are a pending graduate in the current academic year (Fall 2025, Spring 2026, Summer 2026) and have at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average are eligible to apply.

Awards: There are five awards including four outstanding departmental recipients and the College of Fine Arts McRae recipient.  Each student receives a monetary award and a plaque.

Application: The Senior Prize application is an online process using the form found on this page. All fields on the form are required. Students MUST submit a link to sample work or portfolio and an unofficial copy of their UNM transcript as a PDF. Students must ensure that reviewers are able to access the link without requesting permission.

Failure to follow instructions may cause your application to be marked incomplete and excluded from consideration.

Selection Criteria: Nominees are evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Contributions to the arts: This includes performances, exhibitions, creative work, and any other art-related activities that demonstrate dedication, skill, and innovation. The Portfolio will also be assessed as part of this category, reflecting the breadth and quality of artistic output.
  • Service to department/college/university: This includes any leadership, mentorship, or organizational roles that support the institution or its activities.
  • Awards, scholarships and prizes: This includes awards, scholarships, and other honors reflecting both merit and the quality of work.
  • Potential Future impact of education and experiences: Demonstrate reflection, ambition, and the ability to connect learning with future success.

 

The outstanding seniors will be recognized at the Spring 2026 CFA Convocation, and the McRae award recipient will be announced at that time.

You may contact the CFA Advisement Center with questions or concerns: finearts@unm.edu or (505) 277-4817.

    *All fields are required.

    Describe your contributions to the arts while a student at UNM. (This may include such activities as performances, exhibitions, research, creative work, etc.)

    Describe the services you have performed for your department, college and/or the university.

    List any scholarships, awards, and/or prizes you have received while at UNM.

    In one or two paragraphs, describe the ways in which you expect your education and experiences as a fine arts major will affect you in the future.

    You must attach a copy of your unofficial UNM Transcript (PDF ONLY):

    How to Apply

    • All students must be admitted to the University, whether as an incoming freshman, transfer student, or non-degree student. Apply online through the Admissions Department at UNM

    •After meeting all CFA admission requirements, students must apply to become a declared major.

    Academic Advisement

    The College of Fine Arts Student Success & Advisement Center is committed to serve the UNM community with compassion, guidance, and respect as we promote academic excellence.

    To speak with a CFA advisor, please call (505) 277-4817.

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