Andy Klingelhoefer, dean of student life at California State University, Monterey Bay, has received professional recognition for his service as a housing officer.

He has been selected as the recipient of the Western Association of College & University Housing Officers (WACUHO) Charles L. Miller Leadership and Service Award.

This award is the highest honor given by this organization, said Holly White, spokeswoman for CSUMB.

It derives its name from the late Charles L. Miller, a person who, according to WACUHO, "exemplified the highest level of dedication to (the) profession, provided outstanding leadership and role modeling for seasoned veterans and new professionals alike and was known for his tremendous sense of humor."

For almost 30 years, Klingelhoefer has been active in, and committed to, students as they work towards accomplishing their educational and life goals. He is a dedicated professional who devotes countless hours to the development of students, White said.

"Having people like (Klingelhoefer) supporting students makes a world of difference because he understands student perspectives and supports student advocacy in a way that fosters leadership development in individual students," said Lisa Moreno, CSUMB's student body president.

Klingelhoefer began his career in higher education as a resident adviser and then a resident director at Humboldt State University in 1974. He went on to work in various positions in student housing at Colorado State University, the University of Washington, San Diego State University, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and CSU-Dominguez Hills.

"I'm honored and humbled to have received this award," Klingelhoefer said. "Working with students in their out-of-the-classroom experience is very rewarding.