The ACUI Values Award

 

The ACUI Values Award is presented to up to five individuals annually who continuously uphold the ACUI core values in their daily work. The importance of the college union is actively demonstrated through this individual's commitment to unconditional human worth, joy, learning, caring community, innovation, diversity, and integrity.

In a given year, one individual with ACUI membership from each of the following categories may receive this award:

  • Undergraduate students
  • Graduate students
  • New professionals (up to five years of experience)
  • Mid- to senior-level professionals (more than 5 years of experience)
  • Associate members
2020 Recipients
Tricia Dobrient, Marquette University, has made a significant impact in her work as a graduate student both in the Alumni Memorial Union and within ACUI Region V. As a two-year graduate assistant overseeing the Division of Student Affairs Marketing Office, she improved outreach to the community and increased educational opportunities during staff meetings—serving as a relationship-focused member of the team. She also became involved with the Region V Leadership Team, presenting sessions at their conference and challenging the team members to broaden their thinking about how all of the region’s programs can and would affect students.
Tricia Dobrient

David Lemon, University of St. Thomas, is someone with the Association always in the back of his mind. Since attending IPDS in 2014, David has been involved in leadership positions at both the regional and association levels, including presenting at conferences and serving on the Future of the Brand Task Force and as a regional director. David has been an inspiration to many, and there are several volunteers who can be traced back to him as the reason they became more involved in ACUI.

David Lemon
Michael MacStudy, Ramapo College, has been described as “a team player,” doing everything from helping run the campus Fashion Show to even driving a campus shuttle when a driver was out. Known for his commitment to innovation and joy, Mike receives high praise from colleagues for his support of the college’s programming board, student employment, and the more than 50% commuter students at their institution. Mike has also become an active ACUI volunteer, serving on the 2018 Regional Conference Planning Team and as the educational coordinator for his region.
Michael MacStudy
Past Recipients
  • 2019: Michael Boerner, Stony Brook University; Kyle Burke, Northeastern Illinois University; and Victoria Lawler, California State University–Northridge
  • 2018: Tara Benson, Missouri State University
  • 2017: Amy Liss, University of Massachusetts–Lowell
  • 2016: Jessi Eaton, University of Minnesota–Duluth
  • 2015: Keith Kowalka, University of Houston
  • 2014: Tina Pinocci, Rowan University

Criteria

The review process includes, but is not limited to, an assessment of written evidence that the nominee has gone above and beyond to embody the ACUI core values in their work to advance campus community. An individual cannot receive the ACUI Values Award more than once.

    Eligibility

    Individuals with ACUI membership are eligible for this award.

    Submit

    Submission materials must include the following:

    1. Name, institution, and contact information of the nominee.
    2. Name, institution, and contact information of the nominator.
    3. 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 nomination deadline is December 11.

    Nominate Now

    Selection

    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.

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