The ACUHO-I Research and Education Foundation inducted six new individuals into the Parthenon Society at the ACUHO-I Campus Home. LIVE! 2024. The new inductees were Bes Liebenberg, Dan Pedersen, Sandi Scott, Shannon Staten, Countess Hughes, and Teri Bump. This class brought in a record amount in donations, and more than $65,000 was raised. These awards are one of the greatest honors a campus housing professional can receive, as champions nominate candidates and then solicit donations to recognize a career filled with contributions. The awards were presented by ACUHO-I Foundation chair Tom Hardy.
Bes Liebenberg, manager of student residences and student support at the University of Pretoria, was recognized for her exceptional communication skills and ability to consistently solve complex problems on her campus and in her work with multiple associations, including ACUHO-I and the South African chapter. One of her champions wrote, “Her remarkable dedication and service, spanning over 15 years, has left an indelible mark on our field. Her unwavering commitment to the improvement of the housing profession both here and abroad underscores her qualifications for this prestigious accolade.”
Dan Pedersen, currently the executive director of housing and residential services at Northern Illinois University, was honored for his work across multiple regions and institutions. His nominators highlighted that “He has contributed on large and small campuses; shared his knowledge with students, new professionals, as well as seasoned veterans. He has served as a role model and reference for numerous students, graduate assistants, and colleagues, while maintaining a sense of both humility and pride in a job well done.”
Sandi Scott, dean of students at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, was recognized for her relentless positivity and drive in her work within campus housing. One nominator noted, “This person’s mentorship extends beyond our profession as she has served as a mentor for so many young professionals who have moved to other professions and careers. She has dedicated time and effort to mentoring individuals from diverse backgrounds and offering guidance and support to help them excel in their careers. Her mentorship has had a profound impact on the personal and professional growth of hundreds, including myself.”
Shannon Staten, executive director for university housing and the childcare center at Florida State University, was celebrated for her longstanding career in campus housing (more than 40 years) and her strong leadership on task forces and committees at the regional and international level. One of her champions noted, “She is an avid learner, unafraid to change, and energized to co-create and adapt innovative practices. She does not seek the spotlight but . . . shines the spotlight on others.” And several supporters added that Staten gives wholly of herself to advocate for others while role modeling balance and prioritizing family during a challenging career.
Countess Hughes, associate director of housing and residential education at the University of Virginia, was recognized for her skillful creation of a supportive environment for students and their families while they navigate their journey on campus. One nominator wrote, “The nominee is the essence of the Parthenon Award, from her involvement in the field over the decades to her mentoring of professionals across the years. There are professionals across the globe who would not be in housing today without her influence.”
Teri Bump, vice president of university relations and student affairs at American Campus Communities, was recognized as a strong advocate for women and professionals of color and as a driving force behind many associations’ DEI initiatives. Her champions noted that she is a person who, “personifies integrity, gravitas, kindness, and confidence” and someone “who has given freely of those traits to countless colleagues.”
