At the Stanford School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences diploma award ceremony each year in June, a graduate of the Earth Systems Program is awarded the William W. Whitley Citizen Scholar Prize. The prize honors William Whitley (1925-2001), a Stanford geology alumnus (BS '49). Bill was an active member of the school's Petroleum Investments Committee beginning in 1980, including serving as its chairman from 1986 to 1989.

Bill Whitley was widely respected for the quality of his work. He was also respected and loved for the quality of his character, distinguishing himself in a graceful and unassuming manner by always being there for his family, friends, colleagues, and the institutions he supported. In keeping with Bill's spirit, recipients of the William Whitley Citizen Scholar Prize are chosen both for their impressive academic work and because they give significantly through service to the school and community.

The Whitley Citizen Scholar Prize is by nomination only- students may not apply for this award. Awardees receive a cash prize.