President of the Year Award

Nominations are now open! Submit by November 20!

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.

2025 Recipient: Dr. M Brian Blake, Georgia State University

Dr. M Brian Blake’s dedication to creating a vibrant, engaged campus community is further evident in his hands-on involvement with students and staff, as well as his active collaboration with key student organizations such as the Student Government Association and Greek Life. His ability to prioritize the needs of student affairs and ensure that the college union and student activities have a voice at the table speaks to his commitment to the student experience. Moreover, his successful advocacy for Georgia State’s $80 million grant from the Woodruff Foundation, which will fund the transformation of the campus and student spaces, demonstrates his forward-thinking leadership and understanding of the importance of a connected and thriving campus community.

Watch this video to learn more about Georgia State’s efforts.

Nominations are now open through November 20!

Nominate Now

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.

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