The Coalition for Women’s Identities is pleased to announce our award recipients! This year, we are honored to present these awards to three exemplary women who continue to move higher education and student affairs forward. Read more about these award recipients below:
Name: Kalue Yang
Pronouns: She/her
Institution and job title: California State University, Fresno | Graduate Intern Advisor
What does receiving this award mean to you?: Receiving the ACPA Coalition for Women’s Identities Research and Scholarship Award is a profound honor that recognizes not only my dedication to research but also the trust and encouragement my mentor has shown in my potential. This award also reflects ACPA’s steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion by valuing and uplifting research that explores the success of Hmong students in higher education, a topic close to my heart as a first-generation Hmong scholar. It inspires me to continue advancing work that supports women and gender identities in student affairs.
What inspires you in the higher education/student affairs space?: What inspires me most in the higher education and student affairs space is being surrounded by innovative and bold leaders who are deeply passionate about their causes. Their courage and dedication encourage me to embrace my authentic voice and explore what advocacy can truly look like. I am also continually inspired by the resilience of students and their determination to overcome challenges. Additionally, the opportunity to contribute to the ever-growing legacy of scholars who aspire to become the leaders of tomorrow motivates me to strive for meaningful impact in this field.
How does ACPA and CWI impact and aid in your career in higher education/student affairs?: ACPA has been an invaluable community and resource in my journey. During moments when I’ve felt like an imposter among STEM student researchers in my educational journey, ACPA has reminded me of the critical importance of research in student affairs and the unique value my work brings to the field. It’s a space where I’ve found both belonging and purpose as I navigate and shape my professional identity. More specifically, the Coalition for Women’s Identities (CWI) has kept me grounded, offering a supportive environment where I feel seen and valued as a woman in higher education, particularly as someone from a minority background. These spaces not only reaffirm my place in this field but also inspire me to continue contributing to it with confidence and authenticity.
Name: Hannah Aksamit
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Institution and job title:University of California, San Diego Women’s Center Assistant Director for Education
What does receiving this award mean to you?: I am honored and feel incredibly validated to be receiving this award. Working in education can sometimes be a thankless job, so it is affirming to know that the gender-equity work I am doing is worthy of recognition.
What inspires you in the higher education/student affairs space?: I am continually inspired and motivated by the willingness to learn and unlearn. In my H.Ed work, I feel deeply called to do better, to ask hard questions, to empower our students to push back against injustices.
How does ACPA and CWI impact and aid in your career in higher education/student affairs?: I am grateful to call ACPA my professional home because of the community and connections I have made. The people who volunteer their time, energies, and love to make the association successful push me to be better.
Name: Dr. Tyeesha “Tye” Wesley
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Institution and job title: University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Interim Associate Director of Residence Life
What does receiving this award mean to you?: This award on its own is a point of privilege to know that I have made an impactful contribution to women within the field. It means even more knowing who nominated me and for them to share the impact that I have had on them personally and professionally. After more than a decade in this profession, it is humbling to reflect on the legacy I am building—while also recognizing that the work is far from over.
What inspires you in the higher education/student affairs space?: Transparent mentorship keeps me engaged and optimistic in today’s higher education landscape. Listening to the experiences of entry-level professionals and graduate students has been both eye-opening and a reality check. We often emphasize the importance of supporting students, yet our professional staff need that same level of care and advocacy. Navigating these spaces and using my positional power to uplift and advocate for others is what drives me forward.
How does ACPA and CWI impact and aid in your career in higher education/student affairs?: I have been an active member of ACPA since 2012, and it has reinforced my sense of belonging, reminding me that my voice matters—regardless of my position or title. As a Black woman, I often find myself in spaces that challenge my presence and expertise simply because of my identities. ACPA and CWI have provided me with the support, community, and confidence to stand firmly in my abilities, knowing that I have a network of peers who uplift and guide me, even in moments of uncertainty.
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