Distinguished Faculty Award

Nominations are now open! Submit by November 20!

The Distinguished Faculty Award recognizes a faculty member for demonstrated support of college unions and campus community building.

2025 Recipient: Dr. Marcelo Vinces, Northwestern University 

Dr. Marcelo Vinces, an associate professor of instruction in molecular biosciences at Northwestern University, has been a tireless advocate for student success, mentoring Posse Scholars, supporting undocumented students, and fostering a sense of belonging on campus. As one nominator shared, “His contributions extend far beyond the classroom—his unwavering support and genuine care make him an invaluable asset to our university.” Dr. Vinces’s dedication to mentorship, inclusivity, and community building truly embodies the spirit of building campus community. 

Nominations are now open through November 20!

Nominate Now

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

  • Demonstrate evidence of including the college union idea in coursework.
  • Conduct or support research relevant to advancing campus community.
  • Foster relationships that promote the college union and demonstrate participation outside of their position as a faculty member.

Individuals with ACUI membership and whose full-time role is as a faculty member are eligible for this award. Nominations will be considered for five years, provided the nominee still holds a full-time faculty role. Nominees do not need to be tenured or tenure-track.

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.

  • 2024: Dr. Jacqueline Hodes, West Chester University
  • 2023: Dr. Tricia Shalka, University of Rochester 
  • 2021: Dr. Marquita Gammage – California State University–Northridge
  • 2020: Lawrence Baden, Webster University
  • 2019: Danielle DeSawal – Indiana University–Bloomington
  • 2018: Chris Laws – University of Washington