Eastern Connecticut State University’s Campus Activity Board (CAB) has been recognized for its achievements in on-campus programs. The Northeast Region of the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) announced Eastern as an award recipient in Excellence in Programming at a reception on Nov. 10.

“Receiving the Excellence in Programming award is a testament to the hard work that CAB puts into each and every event,” said Nikki Flynn, a student member of CAB.

Among the criteria cited by CAB in its applications were the goals of the organization, the range of diversity in its initiatives and programs, current marketing projects and the effectiveness of its programs.

A committee of judges considered programming initiatives from November 2022 to October 2023 in deciding a winner. Three schools were identified to present at the reception on Nov. 10 and judges then selected a winner.

Student members of CAB spoke highly of their opportunities to present. “My NACA Excellence in Programming experience was very positive and rewarding,” said Sadie Blackwell. “In order to showcase CAB for all it is, my partner and I countlessly practiced our presentation, making sure we highlighted the most important events.”

CAB earned additional recognition at the event. The board received a certificate for Best Cultural Marketing Material for a video recap of an on-campus event. CAB also earned the People’s Choice Award for marketing in recognition of its CAB Letters.

Individuals within the organization were also recognized. Student Frida Nieto, who has served in several roles in CAB, was one of the region’s Ken M. Bedini Student Leader Award recipients. Joshua Sumrell, coordinator of Eastern’s Intercultural Center, received a Northeast Diversity Achievement Award.

“Eastern has given me so many opportunities to challenge myself in all aspects of my life. I consider this campus my home and my mission has always been to help others feel the same,” said Nieto.

Alyssa Duffy, associate director of student activities at Eastern, volunteered as the Northeast Region’s recognition and recruitment coordinator this year and supported her students and colleagues alike. “I am very proud of all of their efforts,” she said.