Dr. Thomas Lane ’91, M.S. ’95, was presented with the Outstanding Service to the Student Affairs Profession Award at the virtual Illinois State University Alumni and Friends Reception held March 23 during the NASPA Annual Conference.
This award is given to an Illinois State University graduate in the field of student affairs or higher education who exhibits high-impact practices such as mentoring students and professional colleagues; demonstrating an appreciation for lifelong learning and professional development; applying knowledge, experience, and resources to create educational environments beneficial to students’ development; collaborating with colleagues; and contributing to the student affairs profession through regional, state, or national professional associations.
Lane received his undergraduate and master’s degrees at Illinois State University, completing the college student personnel sequence of the educational administration program. Following his time at Illinois State, he earned his doctorate in educational leadership and analysis from the University of Missouri.
Lane has more than 25 years of student life administration experience, having previously served in various roles at Missouri State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, and at Illinois State University, where he held his first position in student affairs. Lane currently serves as the vice president for student life and dean of students at Kansas State University.
In addition to his administrative roles, Lane has served as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Missouri and Missouri State, teaching courses for graduate programs in higher education leadership. He has also been active in the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) at the regional level as well as in the Association of College Unions International (ACUI).
Lane was nominated for this award for his passion for community building on college campuses and instilling that same passion into his staff. Through his years working both in student affairs and as a professor, these values have been a top priority. He is described by his nominator, Jeremy Schenk ’00, M.S. ’01, as “a true community builder and leader within our profession.”
The Division of Student Affairs at Illinois State is grateful for his contributions to the field and proud to honor Dr. Thomas Lane with the Outstanding Service to the Student Affairs Profession Award.
