The International Law Students Association recognizes that many ILSA chapters often go above and beyond in their efforts to promote the study and understanding of international law. In order to recognize these accomplishments, Chapter Awards are given annually to chapters that best exemplify the characteristics described in each award category. This year, winning chapters will also receive a monetary prize to help them with academic programming for the 2008-2009 academic year.

Any events that a chapter has hosted or produced from January 2007 to January 2008 are eligible for consideration. Chapters may nominate themselves for one or more award, and may nominate one activity or event in more than one category.Chapter Award Nomination Forms can be found here.

Nomination Forms are must be returned to the ILSA Executive Office by April 1, 2008. Nominations will be considered by the ILSA Executive Director, the ILSA Programs Coordinator, the elected student officers and other ILSA staff. The Chapter Awards will be given out at the 2008 Spring Conference in Washington, D.C. Questions regarding the awards and nomination form may be directed to ILSA Student President Rob Magouirk (president@ilsa.org) or ILSA Programs Coordinator Jill Hereau (jshereau@ilsa.org).

Chapter Award Categories

Best All-Around Chapter

The award for "Best All-Around Chapter" honors a chapter which has organized or sponsored many successful events throughout the course of the academic year and has maintained a large number of student members in its chapter (relative to the size of the student body). This chapter’s events should be varied in type and scope, incorporating educational, philanthropic, and social events into its calendar. The “Best All-Around Chapter” should demonstrate a commitment to advancing an understanding of international law within its school and community.

Most Improved Chapter

The "Most Improved Chapter" award acknowledges a chapter which has, in the course of the year, expanded its membership, developed its programming, and achieved a significantly greater level of success from the previous year. The recipient of this award is not required to have been unsuccessful in the past, but must merely have grown considerably and expanded its dedication to the promotion and study of international law.

Best Academic International Event
(Symposium/Lecture/Speaker Series)

The award for "Best Academic International Event" will be presented to a chapter that has planned and executed a successful, well-attended event which best reflects the nature and importance of international law. This event may include speakers, lectures, panel discussions, or any other format, but must be educational and creative, and should reflect the chapter’s understanding of the meaning and value of international law.

Best International Social Event

The "Best International Social Event" award takes into account that successful ILSA chapters do not have to devote their agenda exclusively to lectures and conferences, and that it is important to learn from one’s peers. The winning event should be attended by a relatively large number of chapter members, other law school organizations, and faculty members, and may be open to members of other chapters. Additionally, this event should incorporate some aspect of international law or international relations.

Best Philanthropic Event/Activity

The award for "Best Philanthropic Event/Activity" will be presented to a chapter that planned or sponsored a successful, well-attended event or activity that benefits a charitable organization or cause. The winning event may or may not include fundraising, should be open to the entire community, and should be international in character and scope.