Patricia A. Kasowski Recognition Award

Long and meritorius service to our profession

This award recognizes long and meritorious service to our profession, the rendering of service to our association, the demonstration of leadership and, finally, service with distinction. In 1997, the IACAC Executive Board renamed the award in memory of Patricia A. Kasowski.

*NEW* Courtney E. Wallace Distinguished Service Award

The Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling’s Courtney Wallace Distinguished Service Award was inaugurated in 2025. This award recognizes members with at least fifteen (15) years of service who have provided strong and consistent leadership to IACAC. More than one award may be given each year. The award is named in honor of Courtney Wallace, a dedicated college admission professional known for championing access to higher education, advocating for women in admission, encouraging younger admission professionals, and uplifting voices. Courtney supported thousands of students and countless colleagues through her work in IACAC, NACAC, and CARR. Her smile, humor, knowledge of and respect for the profession, and positive attitude were infectious. She brought light and laughter to her colleagues, friends, and the countless families she served during her distinguished career. Her commitment to the ethics of our work was a model for the profession, and we are a better profession for having had her in it, for far too short a time.

Criteria:

• Must be an IACAC member with at least 15 years of related experience.
• Must be consistently involved in IACAC or NACAC.
• Member need not have held a leadership position in either organization.
• Serves and advocates for students and families with passion and integrity.
• Routinely serves students and families above and beyond the traditional expectations of our work.
• Regularly mentors colleagues, provides inspiration and support, and uplifts the next generation of admission counseling professionals and leaders.

 

Molly K. Arnold President’s Service Recognition Award

Greater than 5 years involvment with IACAC

This award was inaugurated in 1999, to recognize members with more than five years’ service who have provided strong and consistent leadership to IACAC. More than one award may be given each year. In 2010, the IACAC Executive Board renamed the award in honor of Molly K. Arnold.

 

James A. Alexander Newcomer Award

Fewer than 5 years involvement with IACAC

This award was inaugurated in 1987, to recognize significant contributions of those members with fewer than five years’ involvement with IACAC. More than one award may be given each year. In 2004, the IACAC Executive Board renamed the award in honor of James A. Alexander.

 

Inclusion, Access and Success Award

Made postsecondary educational opportunities available to historically underrepresented students

This award was inaugurated in 2015, to recognize members who have been instrumental in making postsecondary educational opportunities available to historically underrepresented students. It models itself after NACAC's Inclusion, Access and Success Award.