Lisbeth “Beth” Bailey, assistant director, director of programs of the K-State Student Union received the Shirley Bird Perry Distinguished Service Award during the Association of College Unions International (ACUI) Region II virtual conference Nov. 4-5, 2020. 

Bailey joined the Union in 2004 and has advised the Union Program Council for the past 16 years. She has mentored and advised hundreds of students, developed countless staff members, planned thousands of events and contributed to the continued success of the out-of-classroom experience at the university.

Under Bailey’s leadership, UPC has planned and delivered impactful events to students ranging from major concerts and comedians to diversity and inclusion awareness programs as well as representation at large-scale university events such as Family Day and Open House.

"Beth is one of the most outstanding student advocates and supporters I've had the priviledge to work with. She takes the time to meet with students individually to support their academic success in any way possible. Beth demonstrates empathy and care for our students by taking time get to know their interests and goals both inside and outside the classroom. She takes pride in developing leaders and creating a place of belonging for students who may not feel like they fit in elsewhere on campus," said Corey Williamson, Union executive director.

About the Award

The Shirley Bird Perry Distinguished Service Award, established by Region 12 in 1999 and adopted by Region II in 2014, honors one of the most influential leaders in Region 12 for more than four decades. After being named the “Most Outstanding Woman Student” as a senior at the University of Texas–Austin, Perry began her professional career as a program director and then as director of the Texas Union. During her union career, she was the first woman to be elected to the ACUI Executive Committee, serving as vice president for conference program from 1968–70. She was also the first woman to serve as president of the organization in 1972–73. She was the first woman to receive the Association’s highest recognition, the Butts-Whiting Award, in 1976. She worked as coordinator of educational programs and services at the ACUI Central Office from 1976–79. Perry returned to an administrative position at the University of Texas–Austin in 1979, and was a vice chancellor for the University of Texas System when she passed away in May 2011.

The Shirley Bird Perry Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor presented by Region II. The award is designed to recognize a member of the region who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of ACUI. Persons nominated should be singled out for their quality work and sustained contribution to ACUI, rather than for a single action. Eligible recipients are employed full-time, or recently retired, from a Region II institution, have more than 10 years experience in the field, and a minimum of six years experience in Region II (or former Region 11 or 12).