Northridge — Debra L. Hammond, Executive Director of the University Student Union at CSUN, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 16th Annual Women in Business Awards presented by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal (SFVBJ). On Wednesday, April 26, Debra received the award for her outstanding achievements as an inspirational woman in business who has made an ongoing difference throughout the San Fernando Valley during her 23 years at CSUN.
“It is such an honor and I am truly humbled that the San Fernando Valley Business Journal chose to recognize me in such a meaningful way,” said Debra. “This award is so special to me because it recognizes my work as both a professional and a woman. It’s important for women in business to be recognized for their contributions.”
The award was presented at the Hilton Woodland Hills by SFVBJ editor and publisher Charles Crumpley. The ceremony annually honors outstanding businesswomen in the San Fernando Valley and neighboring areas. Distinguished women from a range of professional fields also were recognized in other categories.
Debra’s award was in recognition of her more than three decades working in higher education and her ongoing achievements as the USU’s Executive Director. In her current position, she has spearheaded the opening of the $60 million Student Recreation Center, along with the Pride Center, Veterans Resource Center and the state-of-the-art Oasis Wellness Center. Debra’s positive impact on the campus includes her leadership role in establishing the USU as a safe, inclusive and welcoming resource for students as well as a highly beneficial auxiliary organization to the CSUN community.
Along with her duties as Executive Director, Debra serves as a faculty member of the Michael D. Eisner College of Education, which presented her with the Professor of the Year Award in 2012. She is also a past President of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI).
In 2016, the California State University system (CSU) recognized Debra with its highest award that can be presented to a university administrator, Outstanding Staff Member. She was selected from among all 23 campuses for her commitment to advancing the mission of CSU and enhancing its excellence in teaching, scholarship and service.
The USU staff and student assistants are extremely proud of Debra for receiving this well-deserved recognition! For more information on the USU, please visit www.csun.edu/usu and for more information on the San Fernando Valley Business Journal, please visit www.sfvbj.com.
