Each Spring, the Gonzaga University Athletic Department spends an evening honoring student-athletes at the Evening of Excellence. This annual event is the awards and recognition banquet designed to honor outgoing seniors and all of the contributions they made to Gonzaga Athletics and the broader University during their time at GU. Five major awards are handed out during the festivities: Leadership Award, Male and Female Scholar-Athlete Award and Male and Female Senior Athlete Award. The banquet gives coaches of each sport the opportunity to share their perspective on what each senior meant to their program and gives outgoing seniors a chance to share what is next for them.

The Male and Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award recognizes those who have risen to the top of their respective class while simultaneously earning their varsity letter and conducting themselves in a manner reflective of our rich and celebrated Jesuit traditions.