Devorah Lieberman Named ‘President of the Year’ by ACUI

The Association of College Unions International named University of La Verne President Devorah Lieberman “President of the Year” at its annual national conference Thursday in San Antonio, Texas. It is the fourth year the organization has offered the award.

Dr. Chip West, Vice President of Capital Planning Facilities and Space Management, and numerous others at the University of La Verne nominated Lieberman for the award because of her dedication to engaging and uniting the campus community through initiatives such as The La Verne Experience.

“I really think that’s one of the things Dr. Lieberman does so well, so it was easy to write her nomination because of the signature programs she’s championed for our campus,” West said.

College presidents from the University of Houston, the University of Massachusetts and Lake Forest College have won the award in previous years.

Presidents are selected based on their involvement in student activities, college unification, participation outside administrative duties and encouragement of others to increase involvement.

Dr. Peggy Redman, Emeritus Professor of Education, said in her nomination letter that Lieberman’s enthusiasm for The La Verne Experience as it was rolled out was the catalyst for its success.

“She attends every student event possible, from football games, to plays, to concerts, to alumni events near and far, where she is always in the heart of the conversation,” Redman said. “She has the unique ability to connect with people on a one-to-one basis, a gift that is significant in advancing the college union idea. She truly understands the meaning of building community.”

Dr. Richard Simpson, Professor of Strategic Management, credited Lieberman with working to build on the University’s nationally-recognized high ranking in diversity. She has engaged students, alumni and the surrounding community with an increase of on-campus speakers, musical and religious programs and celebrations reflecting the diversity of the campus.

“She makes it a point to attend many of these events, leading by example and praising those whose efforts make the events possible and successful,” Simpson said.

Her engagement also extends to her twice-annual Pajama Power Hour – Student Town Hall Meeting where the University’s senior managers gather with students to discuss student needs and issues, said Dr. Loretta Rahmani, Dean of Student Affairs.

“She empowers the students to use their voice for self-advocacy,” Rahmani said.