Tulane University, Taylor Center awarded $100,000 Excellence in Innovation Award

Tulane University has been named the inaugural recipient of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi’s $100,000 Excellence in Innovation Award.

The award recognizes Tulane for achievement in finding powerful solutions to local, regional, national and global challenges through the university’s Phyllis M. Taylor Center for Social Innovation and Design Thinking.

Founded in 2014, the Taylor Center implements a wide range of academic, co-curricular and research opportunities, including community partnerships, student-led activities, visiting professors, student fellowships, service-learning components, award programs and social ventures. Each facet of the Taylor Center, exemplified by its trans-disciplinary methods, works together to provide sustainable solutions to challenges faced in the environment, society, education, health care and beyond.

“We are thrilled to receive this honor which recognizes Tulane's efforts to educate and inspire its students and researchers to pursue world-changing ideas and innovation,” said Tulane President Mike Fitts.

Tulane will accept the award at Phi Kappa Phi’s Biennial Convention in Atlanta on July 30.

“Phi Kappa Phi is delighted to recognize Tulane University with its first Excellence in Innovation Award,” said Society Executive Director Mary Todd. “The Phyllis M. Taylor Center’s emphasis on the interdisciplinary intersection of thought and action reflects Phi Kappa Phi’s own multidisciplinary nature, while engaging Tulane students and faculty in creative applied learning both on and beyond their campus.”

Tulane was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Excellence in Innovation Award by a jury of emeritus presidents and provosts during a two-part screening process. The university was first selected as one of six semifinalists before advancing as a top three finalist. Each institution was assessed on its project’s ability to achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes to create systemic large-scale change.

Since 1933, Phi Kappa Phi has awarded fellowships and grants to members and students on its chapter campuses. The Excellence in Innovation Award is the Society’s only award for collegiate institutions.