Clarkson College Maltese Cross Service Award

Purpose/History of Award

The Clarkson College Maltese Cross Medal for Community Service was established to recognize Clarkson College students, alumni, employees and community members for their outstanding community service (Mission Week, Day of Caring, Service-Learning Activities in Class, Interprofessional Education Service Activities, etc).

The Maltese Cross, adopted by Clarkson College, is a symbol of protection and a badge of honor. Its story is hundreds of years old and originated with the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem, a charitable, non-military organization that existed during the 11th and 12th centuries. The Knights of St. John were united by a pledge of compassion and courage as they helped the sick and the poor by setting up hospices and hospitals. It is for this reason Clarkson College selected the Maltese Cross as its symbol. The graduates of Clarkson College continue the historical significance and meaning of the Maltese Cross as they dedicate their lives to caring for patients, their families, and their communities.

Throughout the long history of Clarkson College, dating back to its beginning in 1888, the College owes its success to the many people in the community who have provided service to the College. Clarkson College traces its roots to Omaha's Child's Hospital, which opened in 1883 through the efforts of Bishop Robert H. Clarkson, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska, as a charitable institution. Following the death of Bishop Clarkson in 1884, the hospital name was changed to Bishop Clarkson Memorial Hospital and his wife, Meliora, guided the hospital into the 20th Century. Mrs. Clarkson recognized the need to train nurses for the hospital and, in doing so, laid the foundation for Clarkson College.

Clarkson College Mission & Values

Qualifications/Selection Criteria

Clarkson College defines service as College-related activities in which students and employees engage in a mutually beneficial relationship with an identified agency or group. Service reflects a holistic view, which focuses on how individuals provide high quality, ethical and compassionate service in the field of health care and the community at large. Students and employees engage in civic service activities to live and demonstrate the Clarkson College Values of Learning, Caring, Commitment, Integrity and Excellence.

Annually, one student and one employee/alumni/community member will be awarded the Maltese Cross Service Award. 

Student Eligibility:

  • Currently enrolled student in good standing
  • Application form and recommendation letter is completed and submitted

Employee/Alumni/Community Member Eligibility:

  • Employee must be in good standing
  • Alumni verification will be completed by the College
  • Community member’s connection to Clarkson College will be verified
  • Application form and recommendation letter is completed and submitted

Award Process

  1. This award application can be submitted online through one of the following options:
    • Nominate yourself by completing the application.
    • Nominate someone else by completing the nomination form.
  2. Submitted nominations will generate an automated message to the person nominated and will request that they fill out the award application. Nominations may be submitted by students, alumni, employees and community members.
  3. If you are completing the application, please complete the appropriate form; either student application or employee/alumni/community member application. One recommendation letter from a service colleague is required with your online application at the time of submittal.
  4. Applications will be accepted September 1 through May 15 of each academic year. After May 15, the President's Office will convene a committee to review all complete applications.
  5. The president of the College will chair the selection committee and appoint the following members each year. Membership includes one member from each of the following groups: Student Government Association, Alumni Association Board, Faculty Senate, Staff Senate, Professional Development, and Leadership Council.
  6. The student recipient and employee/alumni/or community recipient will be notified in writing by the president following the June Board of Directors meeting.
  7. Awards will be presented to both recipients during the August graduation ceremony.

Nomination Form Student Application Employee, Alumni and Community Member Application