40×40 Alumni Changemakers: Full Selection Criteria

40×40 Alumni Changemaker nominees will be evaluated based on the overall strength of their professional achievements, leadership, and contributions. Strong candidates typically demonstrate several of the following qualities.

Professional Impact

Nominees have achieved meaningful accomplishments in their profession, industry, or community. 

Examples may include: 

• Holding leadership or influential roles within organizations  

• Launching or leading impactful initiatives, organizations, or ventures  

• Contributing to advancements in their field  

• Receiving recognition or awards for their work  

• Demonstrating measurable outcomes or influence through their work 

Leadership

Nominees demonstrate leadership that inspires others or shapes institutions, industries, or communities. 

This may include: 

• Leading teams, organizations, or major initiatives  

• Mentoring emerging leaders or supporting professional development  

• Driving innovation or introducing new ideas or practices  

• Influencing policy, public discourse, or institutional change 

Commitment to Service

Nominees’ career trajectories demonstrate a lifetime commitment to advancing equal justice and engaging in or promoting public service. 

This may include: 

• Commitment to public service, pro bono work, or mission-driven work 

• Efforts to expand access to justice or remove systemic barriers for underserved communities 

• Continued engagement with the broader mission of strengthening justice and public service 

Community or Sector Impact

Nominees contribute to improving communities, institutions or fields of practice  

This may include work that: 

• Strengthens institutions or professional fields  

• Advances opportunity and equity 

• Supports community development, education, or civic leadership  

• Creates lasting impact within a sector or region