Carson's Circle is named for Dr. Donald K. Carson, former Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Memphis. The award recognizes a select number of outstanding graduating seniors who exemplify Dr. Carson’s ideals of making the university
a better place through their involvement and leadership in campus life.
Nominees must be seniors at the University of Memphis who will be graduating in May, August or December of 2026. Nominees should have a minimum 3.0 Cumulative GPA and demonstrate the following characteristics:
- Leadership and integrity
- Outstanding contributions to campus life
- Increasing level of leadership responsibility throughout their undergraduate years
- Commitment to academic excellence
- Productive / respectful relationships with faculty, staff and fellow students
- Pride in the University of Memphis
- A tangible legacy they are leaving behind upon their graduation from the University of Memphis.
To be considered for this honor, students must have all parts of the application turned in by 11:59 PM on March 2, 2026. This includes an applicant packet as well as TWO letters of recommendation.