The Theatre Circle established this annual award in 1979 to recognize the outstanding achievements of an undergraduate major of junior or senior standing. The awardee receives a stipend of $1,500, with the name of the recipient appearing on the plaque on display in the Theatre and Drama Center.

The Theatre Circle invites theatre students, faculty, and administrative staff to nominate persons deserving of this recognition. The student must be in good academic standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in theatre courses, with preference given to students with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0.

The award honors the sum of contributions to theatre made by a student during their undergraduate career at Indiana University. Rather than a single performance, design, or other creative effort, the award recognizes achievements of excellence significantly above and beyond those that might reasonably be expected of a student. Contributions for which the student has received financial remuneration are not considered. The winner is selected by a committee of members of Theatre Circle.