The Neag School of Education Alumni Society of the University of Connecticut has named Dr. Wendy B. Libby as the 2009 Outstanding Higher Education Professional. The award is based on Dr. Libby's scholarship, teaching, and administrative contributions to higher education. Dr. Libby earned a Ph.D. in Education Administration from the Neag School in 1994. She is currently the President of Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri and President-Elect of Stetson University in Deland, Florida.

Dr. Libby has been described as an innovator and progressive change agent. In his letter of nomination, Dr. Mark Shibles states that "Her work has been characterized by the ability to diagnose institutional and leadership issues, interpret problems from a variety of constituent groups, define problems and develop workable solutions that increase effectiveness." She is credited with initiating a major institutional turnaround at Stephens College, the second oldest women's institution in the United States. She helped restructure the academic program, and secure financial stability to the school.

Dr. Libby has received numerous awards including the 2007 Athena Award. The President of the Stephens College Student Government Association wrote that "the Athena foundation and Wendy B. Libby have a lot in common. Both are dedicated to opening doors of leadership opportunity for women." Dr. Libby has served in many leadership positions and is a role model for young women. After earning her Ph.D., she was hired as Vice President for Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer at Furman University in South Carolina. Prior to that, she held leadership positions at Cornell University, Ohio State University, the University of Connecticut Health Center, the University of Hartford, and Westbrook College.

Dr. Libby will receive her award at the Annual Alumni Awards Dinner held at the University of Connecticut on Saturday, May 16, 2009. Anyone wishing more information about this event can call Lynne Allen at the University Alumni Center at (888) UC-ALUM-1, (860) 486-2240 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .