President of the Year Award

The President of the Year celebrates senior campus leaders who create relationships to advance the ideals and values of the college union and student activities profession. The award supports a campus-wide understanding of the college union’s role in advancing campus community, while showcasing the recipient’s support and engagement beyond their position as an administrator.

2026 Recipient: Dr. Jennifer Cowley,
University of Texas–Arlington 

Dr. Jennifer Cowley’s dedication to promoting the college union goes beyond her role as an administrator. She actively builds relationships with local organizations, alumni, and community leaders, positioning the college union as a bridge between the campus and the wider community. By participating in initiatives and partnerships outside of her administrative duties, Cowley highlights the value of the college union in fostering connections and creating opportunities for students. Cowley has been a driving force behind the launch of a visionary process to establish a new university center. With unwavering support, she has championed this initiative, recognizing the essential role of a robust campus community in the holistic development and learning success of students. 

Nominations are now closed. Submission materials must include the following:

  • Name, institution, and contact information of the nominee.
  • Name, institution, and contact information of the nominator.
  • Two to three letters in support of the applicant to receive the award written by individuals such as direct supervisors/advisors, peers/colleagues, students, faculty members, etc., addressing:
    • The achievements of the nominee in the profession.
    • The demonstrated commitment of the nominee to the criteria identified for this specific award.
    • A summary of the nominee’s background to provide evidence that they meet the criteria identified for this specific award, including information related to professional experience and volunteer service—providing a current resume or curriculum vitae for the nominee is optional.

The review process includes, but is not limited to, an assessment of the criteria listed below. The nominee must:

  • Create a campus- and community-wide understanding of the importance of campus community in the learning and success of students.
  • Provide resources, tools, and appreciation to the staff and students involved in advancing campus community.
  • Create relationships to promote the college union and participate outside of their position as an administrator.
  • Ensure that the college union and student activities has a voice at the table when decisions are made.
  • Encourage others to increase their involvement in the campus community.

Individuals who hold the position of president at an ACUI member institution is eligible for this award. Nominations will be considered for five years, provided the nominee still holds the position of president.

Electronic notification will be sent to confirm award submissions have been received. A confidential Individuals Awards and Scholarships Committee, appointed annually by the ACUI president, will review materials to make the selection. One recipient will be chosen, unless otherwise noted for the specific award. One physical award will be given to the recipient, who will be recognized during the awards ceremony at the annual conference and in subsequent publications.

  • 2025: Dr. M Brian Blake, Georgia State University 
  • 2024: Robin Bowen, Ph.D., Arkansas Tech University  
  • 2021: Clifton Smart, Missouri State University
  • 2020: Dr. Eli Capilouto, University of Kentucky
  • 2019: Jessica Howard, Portland Community College
  • 2018: Ana Mari Cauce, University of Washington
  • 2017: Jim Murdaugh, Tallahassee Community College
  • 2016: Ricardo Romo, University of Texas–San Antonio
  • 2015: Devorah Lieberman, University of La Verne
  • 2014: Marty Meehan, University of Massachusetts–Lowell
  • 2013: Renu Khator, University of Houston
  • 2012: Stephen Schutt, Lake Forest College