Recommended Naming Resolution - Bauman Center for Leadership and Service

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Stony Brook Council approve naming the LDS Center the “Bauman Center for Leadership and Service” in Recognition of Lifetime Achievement and Contributions to Advance the Mission of Stony Brook University.

BACKGROUND

WHEREAS, Dallas W. Bauman, III, PhD, faithfully served the field of student affairs and higher education for over 51 years, demonstrating unparalleled dedication to the student experience across multiple institutions; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Bauman dedicated nearly four decades of his distinguished career to Stony Brook University, first as an Assistant Dean, then as the first Director of Residence Life, and subsequently as Assistant Vice President for Campus Residences, profoundly shaping the residential landscape and student life; and

WHEREAS, upon his arrival in March 1982, Dr. Bauman undertook a monumental transformation of Stony Brook's residence hall operations, organizing fragmented services into a unified, efficient "Campus Residences" unit; and

WHEREAS, he tirelessly professionalized the Campus Residences staff, recruiting and developing highly qualified individuals with advanced degrees, establishing a gold standard for professional development within the SUNY system; and

WHEREAS, his visionary leadership led to extensive cyclical renovations and the thoughtful design of new facilities, earning Stony Brook University recognition for its premier residential infrastructure; and

WHEREAS, the Center for Leadership and Service, which opened its doors in 2012, was a project with which Dr. Bauman was intimately involved, guiding all facets of its development from inception to completion; and

WHEREAS, this Center for Leadership and Service is renowned for its role in supporting students' self-exploration, encouraging meaningful action and change, and fostering active, engaged citizenship within their communities; and

WHEREAS, he championed critical social justice initiatives, including leading AIDS Peer Education (APE) for over 25 years and fearlessly advocating for the display of the AIDS quilt on campus during a crucial time; and

WHEREAS, he was a driving force behind the "Stony Brook Strong" program, providing invaluable mentorship and support to First Generation and Pell-eligible students, fostering their academic success and personal growth; and

WHEREAS, his collaborative spirit led to the successful co-creation of the Undergraduate Colleges and the integration of academic and residential life through this program, significantly enhancing the first-year student experience; and

WHEREAS, his immense contributions have been recognized nationally through his status as a Foundation Member and recipient of the Diamond Honoree and Lifetime Achievement Recognition from the American College Personnel Association (ACPA); and

WHEREAS, his colleagues consistently lauded him as a "legend and visionary," admiring his sharp intellect, subtle humor, and unwavering commitment to students, recognizing his profound impact on countless lives through his practice, teaching, and service; and

WHEREAS, all who know Dr. Bauman can attest that he embodies the values of student development and has been a consistent champion of student success.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE STONY BROOK COUNCIL, THAT:

In recognition of his extraordinary and indelible legacy and his direct, transformative contributions to the Center's mission and development, the university has renamed the Center for Leadership and Service as the Bauman Center for Leadership and Service, a fitting testament to his decades of
impactful contributions and enduring influence on the success of Stony Brook University.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Stony Brook University expresses its deepest gratitude and profound admiration for Dallas W. Bauman, III, celebrating his remarkable career and the indelible positive mark he has left on countless students, staff, and the institution as a whole.

The Stony Brook Local Council authorizes Chair, Kevin Law, to transmit this resolution to the Board of Trustees of the State University of New York.

February 9, 2026