The Andrew Young School Distinguished Alumni Award honors outstanding alumni who exemplify the institution's standards of excellence. The award was created in 2011 to celebrate those who have made a significant contribution to the academy, the public sector, business, or the nonprofit sector, and the larger community.

"There is a race on as to who controls the thinking and direction of the world among those who are trying to hold onto the past, and those who dare to create a new and prosperous future that includes all of humanity." – Ambassador Andrew J. Young

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." – Ralph Waldo Emerson