The ACUI Values Award

Nominations are now open! Submit by November 20!

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 community, inclusion, learning, and innovation.

2025 Recipient: Carole Dowell, Virginia Commonwealth University 

With over 20 years of leadership in higher education, Carole Dowell has consistently championed the core values of community, inclusion, and innovation. She creates spaces where every individual feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. As one nominator shared, “Carole fosters a culture of belonging through open dialogue, authentic relationships, and genuine care.” Her dedication to fostering belonging and driving transformative change has left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the entire community. 

2025 Recipient: Gilbert Falcon, Colorado State University 

Gilbert Falcon is a leader who exemplifies joy, inclusion, and unwavering dedication to students and community. His innovative initiatives, like the student raffle and regional award ceremony, have left a lasting impact on ACUI Region IV. As one nominator shared, “Gilbert treats every individual with dignity and respect, consistently ensuring that every student, colleague, and community member feels seen and valued.”  

2025 Recipient: Laurie Frederickson, Indiana University  

Laurie Frederickson has shown her commitment to ACUI values in her student leadership role of president of the Indiana Memorial Union Board. Laurie is strongly committed to community, with a focus on the needs of students; she also believes in continued learning, helping to plan training and retreats for fellow board members. One nominator said, “I cannot think of someone who is more deserving of this recognition and affirmation” as Laurie is “living the ACUI values in her work and interactions.”   

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 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.

Individuals with ACUI membership are eligible for this award. 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

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: Tari Hunter, California State University–Northridge
  • 2023: Shanna Kinzel, University of Nevada–Las Vegas; Linda Koon, University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh
  • 2022: Ian Crone, University of Tennessee–Knoxville
  • 2021: Doyle Hytchye, University of Texas–San Antonio; Rene Singleton, the University of Washington
  • 2020: Tricia Dobrient, Marquette University; David Lemon, University of St. Thomas; Michael MacStudy, Ramapo College
  • 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