11/26/24

By FHSU University Communications

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State University Director of Admissions Jon Armstrong recently received the Laura Cross Distinguished Service Award (LCDS) from the Kansas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (KACRAO).

The LCDS is KACRAO's highest award, presented to the individual who has served in the Admissions, Records, Registrar, or Enrollment Management profession for a substantial portion of their career and made significant contributions to KACRAO.

“It’s hard to put into words what this award means to me,” Armstrong said. “Receiving the Laura Cross is a tremendous honor and I’m thankful for being in a long line of amazing mentors.” 

While it is a tremendous honor, being recognized for his outstanding work by his peers is not new for Armstrong. In 2021 he received the Diane Barnes Mentor Award (DB). This award is presented to an individual who has served as a dedicated and inspiring mentor to Admissions and Registration professionals.

And in 2001, Armsrtong received the Beth Tedrow Outstanding New Professional Award (ONP). This award is presented to an individual who has been in the Admissions, Records, Registrar or Enrollment Management profession for less than six years and is an active KACRAO member having served on at least one association committee. The recipient must also be involved in one or more campus committees. This award recognizes new professionals for achievements, involvement and potential in admissions and registration.

Originally from Liberal, Armstrong began working in Admissions at Seward County Community College in 1997. He moved to Hays in 2008 and has been Director of Admissions at FHSU since 2018.

“Being in admissions for all these years has allowed me to feed my passion for helping students and professional colleagues,” Armstrong said. “Every day, I have the opportunity to present opportunities for higher education at Fort Hays State University.  This is a very special place. Just give me the mic and I’ll show you.”