Timothy Owens Sheperd Service Award

The Timothy O. Shepherd Service Award, also known as the Shepherd Character Award, recognizes two graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding character, integrity, leadership, and commitment to experiential learning through Virginia Tech’s Cooperative Education and Internship Program (CEIP). The award honors students who exemplify exceptional ethical conduct, academic excellence, service to others, and leadership both within and beyond their co-op or internship experiences.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Timothy O. Shepherd Service Award, applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:

  1. Complete one or more co-op or internship work terms through the Cooperative Education and Internship Program (CEIP).
  2. Have CEP 4084 recorded on their academic transcript and earn a Satisfactory (S) grade for the course.
  3. Be a graduating senior in good standing with a 2.0 or higher at Virginia Tech during the academic year of the award.
  4. Successfully complete all CEIP requirements assignment and paperwork.
  5. Maintain a record of academic excellence, professional conduct, and ethical behavior throughout their participation in CEIP.

Selection Considerations

In addition to meeting the minimum eligibility requirements, applicants will be evaluated based on:

  • Demonstrated character and integrity, including honesty, accountability, professionalism, ethical decision-making, and respect for others.
  • Evidence of outstanding leadership in the workplace, classroom, campus community, or other organizations.
  • A commitment to serving and supporting others through mentorship, collaboration, and positive influence.
  • Strong performance and meaningful contributions during co-op or internship work terms.
  • Active advocacy for experiential learning opportunities, including encouraging and supporting other students to pursue co-op and internship experiences.
  • Consistent demonstration of the values associated with leadership, service, and professional excellence.

Award
Varies
Deadline
11/18/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. Please indicate which semesters you participated in CEIP and were enrolled in CEP 4084.
  2. Indicate which company/organization you worked for.
  3. Describe how you have demonstrated responsibility, initiative, and positive influence through your co-op/internship experience, academic pursuits, campus involvement, and/or community service. How did your actions contribute to the success of others, your organization, or your community, and what impact did your leadership have?
  4. Provide an example that illustrates your character and integrity. How did your actions reflect your personal values, professionalism, accountability, and commitment to doing what is right, even when faced with challenges or difficult decisions? Describe how your actions earned the trust and respect of peers, faculty, supervisors, or colleagues.
  5. Describe your most significant accomplishment during your co-op or internship experience. What was your role, how did you contribute to the organization, what leadership skills did you demonstrate, and what outcomes or impact resulted from your efforts?
  6. How have you encouraged, mentored, or supported other students in pursuing experiential learning opportunities such as co-ops and internships and shared the value of these experiences to other students? Describe how you have served as an advocate for experiential learning and the impact of your efforts on others.
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