Florida Atlantic University Athletics
Faculty Athletics Representative Kimberly Dunn Receives SAAC Choice Award
10/29/2016 12:00:00 AM | General
The SAAC Choice Award recognizes a coach, athletic department administrator or faculty member that is committed to fostering student-athlete development and welfare through a positive athletic and academic atmosphere. Each C-USA institution selected their nominees, who were then voted on by the conference SAAC representatives following their 2016 summer meeting.
Dunn was named the Owls’ FAR to the NCAA in the fall of 2014. Her primary teaching and research interests are in financial accounting and she was recently ranked 41st in the nation for her publications in accounting education research. Although Dunn teaches within the College of Business, she has assisted student-athletes from all majors to obtain opportunities in and after graduation to help them further their careers following graduation. Dunn also serves as chair of the Intercollegiate Athletics Committee, fostering a holistic environment to ensure student-athletes are having the best experience while at Florida Atlantic University.
She is also committed to fostering a positive student-athlete image on campus and in the community. As a way to better support the student athletes, Dunn came up with the idea of hosting faculty and staff tailgates for multiple sports each semester. These events allow the faculty and staff, many of whom are often unaware of the demands of student-athletes, to meet others as well as to gain insight into the life of a student-athlete. These faculty tailgates not only shine light on the performances of the student-athletes, but also provide the opportunity to thank the faculty and staff for their support.
"Dr. Dunn has shown tremendous support for our school, athletics program and SAAC," said Breanna Saukus, President of FAU’s SAAC and a swimming student-athlete. "In addition to helping prepare for careers, Dr. Dunn is committed to the academic welfare of the student-athletes. She understands the time and travel commitment of an in-season student-athlete and is always willing to help advocate for their rights, ensuring they all have equal opportunities to make up missed assignments and/or exams. Her continued commitment and dedication to academics and athletics is what makes Dr. Dunn so deserving of this award."
Dunn is married to her high-school sweetheart, Ray, and they have two sons, Brandon and Caleb. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, golf and, of course, FAU sports. Despite being recently diagnosed with breast cancer, Dr. Dunn has attended almost, if not all, of the athletic events so far this year.
