A husband and wife who dedicate innumerable hours of their time to NAU student groups in addition to both working for Northern Arizona University have been tapped as the 2009 Homecoming dedicatees.
Glenn Hansen, a program coordinator in the Honors Program, and Tracie Hansen, a web communications specialist in the Office of Public Affairs, were notified today of the honor when members of the Chain Gang, Blue Key and Kayettes surprised them at noon in the University Union.
Tracie put her head on the table and cried while Glenn looked awestruck upon learning of their honor.
“I can’t think of a more deserving couple,” said Krista Perkins, associate director of NAU Alumni Relations. “I have worked with both of them and they are both especially dedicated to students and the university as a whole.”
In a tradition that dates back to 1936, students annually select a Homecoming dedicatee, an NAU faculty or staff member who students feel has demonstrated exceptional service to the university and interest in its students. Dedicatees are honored during major events during Homecoming Week, which includes a banquet in their honor and a place in the Homecoming parade.
“I’m shocked. I’m still not sure this is really happening,” Tracie said Tuesday afternoon. “It’s such an honor to be listed with all the previous dedicatees.”
Tracie, an NAU employee for more than 11 years, is adviser to the Kayettes while Glenn, who also has worked at NAU for 11 years, is adviser to Blue Key.
The Chain Gang maintains the tradition of notifying the dedicatee and organizing the Dedicatee Banquet. This year’s banquet begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, in the High Country Conference Center. Tickets are $8 for students and $15 for non-students. Contact the Associated Students of Northern Arizona University at (928) 523-4971, or visit the ASNAU office on the second floor of the University Union.