Rob Stagni, director of the Arkansas Union, was named Outstanding Professional at the Association of College Unions International Region II conference.

"Rob has positively impacted our student union and advanced the mission of the University of Arkansas. This is a well-deserved honor by an exceptional individual," said Lynne Bell, assistant vice chancellor for business services for Student Affairs.

The William H. Smith Outstanding Professional Award is designed to honor and recognize student union or student activities professionals of Region II member institutions who have made exceptional contributions and demonstrated a significant commitment to the student union/student activities profession on their campuses and within the Association of College Unions International. Region II includes Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma and Mexico.

The regional conference was held Nov. 9 to Nov. 11 at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas.

"I'm grateful to my colleagues and peers, both at Arkansas and other ACUI institutions," Stagni said. "Getting to work with talented people elevates your own efforts, and I hope to be able to do the same for others."

"Rob has been a selfless leader, working side by side with his team to provide a better experience in the student union each day," said Andrew Lipson, resident district manager for Chartwells at the University of Arkansas. "I've been in campus dining for more than 30 years and have yet to meet a more student centric building director that truly understand that our student union is for our students and an integral part of their academic experience."

The William H. Smith Outstanding Professional Award was established by ACUI Region 11 in 2004 and adopted by Region II in 2014. The award honors one of ACUI's most influential regional leaders, William Smith, who spent 46 years as a staff member in a college union on the campuses of West Virginia University, Kansas State University, and the University of South Dakota. 
The Arkansas Union is part of the Division of Student Affairs.

About the Division of Student Affairs:
The Division of Student Affairs supports students in pursuing knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers, exploring diversity, and connecting with the global community. We provide students housing, dining, health care resources, and create innovative programs that educate and inspire. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time.