The vision award identifies and extends our sincere appreciation to the individuals in the history of the K-State Student Union whose efforts, commitment, influence and dreams energized the growth and service of our student union.

2025 Recipients

Bill Wisdom, former Union assistant director of retail services 

Bill Wisdom began working at the K-State Student Union in July 1977 as the vending manager. He was promoted to assistant director of retail operations in 2000. During his 38 years of service to Kansas State, Wisdom oversaw several areas of the Union including the K-State Office Supply Store, Union Computer Store, Cats' Den, hair salon, Subway and served as the university liaison with Pepsi.

He mentored countless student employees and has always been a huge supporter of K-State. Wisdom graduated in 1972 with a degree in business.

Snow skiing, hiking and biking are just few of the activities he continued upon his retirement in 2018.

Jack Thoman, former Union assistant director of business services 

Jack Thoman began working at the K-State Student Union as a student in 1972 and completed his degree in accounting the same year. He served as the Union's full-time accountant for more than 20 years before his promotion to assistant director.

During his 44 years of service to Kansas State University, Thoman was responsible for managing the business services office, contract negotiations, annual report and budget process, student privilege fee administration, as well as the daily financial operations of the Union.

Thoman joined the K-State Credit Union Board of Directors in 1993 serving as secretary for 20 years during his tenure. Countless student employees and Union staff members have benefitted from Thoman's leadership and mentoring over the years.