Each year Ivan Allen College pauses to remember its founder, Ivan Allen Jr., former Atlanta mayor and alumnus of Georgia Tech, on the occasion of his birthday, March 15. Typically, the day is marked by a student-focused panel in the morning, followed by a formal luncheon at noon. At the luncheon, in addition to honoring Mayor Allen, the College presents the Ivan Allen Jr. Prize for Progress and Service, which is awarded to a son or daughter of Georgia who, over the course of a career, has made an outstanding contribution to a profession or field related to one of the disciplines of the College. In addition, the College also presents Ivan Allen Jr. Awards to the faculty member, student, and alumnus who best exemplify the spirit of civic leadership personified by Mayor Allen.
