Wakonse Conference

The Wakonse Conference application deadline is Sunday, February 21, 2026, by 11:59 PM.

Wakonse is a word from the Lakota language meaning “to teach, to inspire.” The Wakonse Foundation brings together people who find inspiration in their work and seek to inspire and influence others. This award provides financial support for students to attend a conference focused on teaching in May. Multiple students receive this award each year.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicant has not previously received a Wakonse Conference Award.
• Applicant must be a current ISU graduate or professional student in good academic standing.
• Applicant must have at least one year of graduate school remaining after the Wakonse Conference has ended.
• Students may be considered for the Leadership, Research, and/or Teaching Awards within the same year.
• Completed applications must include:
  • Completed GPSS Wakonse Conference Award Application Form
    • Please be concise and do not exceed the word limit for your responses.
  • Applicant's CV.
  • Two letters of support addressing the applicant's teaching impact:
    • One from a student who attended a class taught by the applicant.
      • Teaching evaluations are now accepted as an alternative to a letter from an individual student. Although a written letter from an individual student is preferred, applicants may submit teaching evaluations if a student letter cannot be obtained.
    • One from the class instructor. If the applicant is the class instructor, this letter should be from the applicant's advisor, department chair, or course supervisor.
• All application materials must be submitted through the GPSS Wakonse Conference Award Application Form coming soon!
• Questions regarding this award or your application can be directed to gpsspresident@iastate.edu.

Past Conference Award Winners