Elon’s vice president of student life was named one of two recipients of the NACA Founders Award.
Jon Dooley, vice president for Student Life and associate professor of education, has been named as one of two recipients of the Founders Award by the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA). Dooley is recognized for his decades-long commitment to advancing campus activities in higher education, as well as his ongoing dedication to students and the professionals who support their learning and growth.
The Founders Award is the highest honor bestowed by NACA, given to professionals that have contributed their time and talents to the association. Recipients of the award exemplify professional integrity, hold esteem among their colleagues and peers and work to further the field of campus activities programming.
“This recognition is especially meaningful to me because my participation in NACA conferences as an undergraduate student helped me discover what has become an incredibly fulfilling career in higher education,” says Dooley about the award. “I’ve been honored to serve the association over the years, proud of the organization’s impact on advancing the profession and grateful for the network of colleagues across the country that continue to influence my work every day.”
NACA is an association for campus activities professionals that strives to empower its members to amplify the campus experience through inclusive learning, meaningful connections, and engaging entertainment that transforms college communities. NACA achieves its mission through educating, training and supporting professionals.
Dooley’s first volunteer leadership role with the organization came as an undergraduate student and he has remained an active leader for the past three decades. Over that time, he has served the association in several roles, including various regional leadership positions; chair of the Commission for Association Volunteer Development; chair of the 2002 National Convention; vice chair for regions, and chair of the NACA Board of Directors; and chair of the NACA Foundation Board of Trustees. He has presented numerous sessions at NACA conferences and was previously recognized by the association with an Honorary Trustee recognition and an Exemplary Practices and Model Programs Award.
The Founders Award will be formally presented to Dooley during the upcoming NACA Live conference in February.