Excellence in Volunteer Service Award

Nominations are now open! Submit by November 20!

The Excellence in Volunteer Service Award acknowledges up to six individuals annually for their success and loyalty to ACUI during the previous 12 months in a volunteer role. The individual’s high level of engagement affirms the value of professional service, validating their leadership, passion, and contribution to ACUI.

2025 Recipient: Isaac Barber, University of Connecticut 

From his work on the ACUI 2024 Annual Conference Program Team to spearheading Indigenous recognition initiatives and serving as the Region VIII inclusivity coordinator, Isaac Barber has continuously fostered student-centered leadership and transformative experiences. As one nominator shared, “Isaac’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity and student-focused learning environments has inspired colleagues and students alike to embrace equity and purpose-driven service.” His leadership, vision, and commitment to advancing ACUI’s mission make him truly deserving of this recognition. 

2025 Recipient: Kraemer Clayton, Rutgers University–New Brunswick 

Through her work on the Region VII Conference Planning Team, Kraemer has shown her dedication and passion for ACUI. Kraemer encourages the team to take initiative, handles issues that arise with ease, and always looks out for the betterment of the region. One nominator called Kraemer a “guiding light,” while another commented on her “uncanny ability to bring a team together toward a common goal.” Kramer has supported Region VII on the execution of four Regional Conferences, serving as chair in 2024.  

2025 Recipient: Beth Goad, University of Denver 

Beth Goad is a dedicated leader whose selfless commitment has profoundly impacted both the international and regional levels of ACUI. From her work on the 2024 Conference Planning Team to her role as Region IV communications coordinator, Beth has consistently created welcoming spaces for others to learn and grow. As one nominator shared, “Beth has gone above and beyond, sacrificing personal and professional time to ensure those attending the conference had the most positive and thoughtful experience.” Her passion for mentorship, innovation, and community makes her truly deserving of this recognition.

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:

  • Have exceptional service to ACUI through a defined volunteer role, not on the ACUI Leadership Team.
  • Demonstrate a contribution, passion, and impact to the profession and ACUI through their volunteer service.

Individuals with membership in ACUI who have performed in at least one non-Leadership Team volunteer role during the previous 12 months is eligible for this award.

Volunteers serving on the ACUI Leadership Team during the previous 12 months shall not be considered eligible for this award, which includes Board of Trustees members, Education Council members, regional directors, and special appointments.

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: Cody Buechner, University of Alaska–Anchorage
  • 2023: Nicole Bellcorelli, University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh; Deidre Kennelly, Mary Immaculate College; Chrissie King, Rutgers University–Camden; Kat Romero, Texas State University
  • 2022: Jennifer Duncan, Agnes Scott College; Ali Myszewski, Marquette University; Molly Orr, University of North Texas
  • 2021 – Brent Freeman – University of Nebraska–Lincoln
  • 2020: Angel Flowers – Indianapolis University-Purdue University–Indianapolis; Danielle Mancuso – Southern Oregon University
  • 2019: Clayton Kolb – Virginia Tech; Rhonda Laylo – University of Illinois–Chicago; Brian Magee – University of Rochester; Kerry Spicer – Daemen College; and Brian Starkel – Indiana University-Purdue University–Indianapolis
  • 2018: Elise Alford – Boise State University; Lauren Sposato – University of Houston; and Alison Ward – University of Tennessee
  • 2017: Shanna Kinzel – California State University–Monterey Bay
  • 2016: Heather Beasley – Purdue University; and Jennifer Keegin – Binghamton University
  • 2015: Michael Sprinkle – Indiana University-Purdue University–Indianapolis
  • 2014: Laura Ballou – University of Rochester; Amanda Ellertson – Portland Community College; Scott Reed – Virginia Tech; and Molly Ward – Weber State University