The UCR Alumni Association established the Distinguished Service Award in 1991 to recognize faculty or administrators for their service to the campus and commitment to the Alumni Association. 

The award is presented in recognition of time and service to the Alumni Association; longstanding, widely recognized, quality instruction; or for a record of longstanding service to students.

The 2007 UCR Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award recipient is Dr. Franklin A. “Lindy” Lindeburg. Dr. Lindeburg was hired at UCR in 1953, before school opened in 1954, as Athletic Director, and instructor of Physical Education.  During his tenure at UCR, he also served as the Assistant Football coach, Basketball coach and Golf coach, before retiring in 1988.

Past Distinguished Service Award Recipients:

• 2004 Patricia O'Brien, former Dean of the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences.
• 2003 David H. Warren, former Executive Vice Chancellor, UCR
• 2002 Ray and Eva Orbach, Chancellor Emeritus, UCR
• 2001 Al Page '56, Professor of Soil Science and Chemist Emeritus
• 2000 Sally S. Dow, former Alumni Director, UCR
• 1999 James H. Erickson, Vice Chancellor Emeritus, University Advancement, UCR
• 1998 Irving Hendrick, Professor and Dean Emeritus, of the Graduate School of Education, UCR
• 1997 William B. Baker, former Vice President of University and External Relations, UC
• 1996 Charles E. Young '55, Chancellor Emeritus, UCLA
• 1994 Ivan and Birk Hinderaker, Chancellor Emeritus, UCR
• 1993 Robert L. Wild, Professor Emeritus, Physics, UCR
• 1992 Francis M. Carney, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, UCR
• 1991 Robert Herschler,  former Registrar, UCR