The Public Service Award is sponsored by the Thornton Academy Alumni Association to recognize one alumnus/a for outstanding public service and volunteerism. The award is not limited to service to Thornton; the Alumni Association looks for a candidate who has made a difference in his or her community or in other organizations.

Nominees must have graduated from Thornton at least 10 years ago. Current employees and Thornton board members are ineligible.

Nominations are welcome year-round. However, to be considered for the current year's award, nominations must be postmarked by Oct. 1 of this year. All nominations are kept permanently on file and reconsidered each year.