William "Bill" Smriga, former K-State Student Union Executive Director

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.

As the Union Executive Director, Smriga led the successful $32 million renovation of the facility from 2015 to 2017 and brought the Union into a budget surplus for during his service. Under his leadership, the Union established a new catering model, increased community groups and established more scholarships and benefits for employees.

By prioritizing students and education, Smriga fostered leadership experience, educational opportunities and a diverse Union community.

Smriga’s service to higher education is extensive. Before coming to K-State, he was the director of the Memorial Union and Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center at Fort Hays State University, associate director of Student Auxiliary Services at the University of Missouri in Columbia, director of Valparaiso University Student Union, and assistant program director for Indiana Memorial Union at Indiana University.

He received his post master's certificate of Advanced Studies in Organization from Loyola University, and a master's degree in college student personnel administration and bachelor's degree in arts and sciences, both from Indiana University.

In addition to awards and invited presentations, he has served in numerous community service and professional leadership positions, including host director for the Big 12 Union Directors Meeting in 2013 and years of work with the Association of College Unions International.