The SACSA Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Gavel and Gravel Society cohort.

The Gavel and Gravel Society honors professionals whose careers demonstrate sustained impact in student affairs through leadership, mentorship, service, and scholarship. These individuals are distinguished not only by their roles or titles, but by the lasting influence of their contributions across institutions, colleagues, and the broader profession.

Don Stansberry, SACSA Foundation Board Trustee, reflects, “SACSA has always been more than a professional association. For many of our members, SACSA is their professional home.” He encourages members to take time to recognize colleagues whose work has strengthened the profession and to submit nominations for this year’s cohort.

This recognition offers a formal opportunity to honor professionals whose work has meaningfully shaped student affairs practice and contributed to the development of professional communities across the region. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of naming and elevating sustained excellence in the field.

Nominees should demonstrate sustained contributions through leadership, mentorship, service, and/or scholarship.

Nomination Materials

• Nomination letter
• CV or résumé
• Optional supporting materials

We encourage members to review past honorees and learn more about the Gavel and Gravel Society on the SACSA Foundation website.

Nomination Timeline

Nominations Open: April 28, 2026
Deadline: July 15, 2026
Class Announcement: August 2026
Recognition Ceremony: November 2026 at the SACSA Annual Conference

Questions may be directed to Don Stansberry, SACSA Foundation Board Trustee, at ggs@sacsa.org.