Maryland Smith’s Claiborne Awarded Career Honor

Darrell Claiborne, director of operations at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, was recognized by the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) as the recipient of the organization’s highest honor, the 2021 Founders Award.

The Founders Award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated significant contributions to NACA throughout their careers. Recipients maintain high standards of professional integrity, are well regarded by their colleagues in the industry and have advanced the field of campus activities programming. 

The award “is truly an honor,” Claiborne says, as it serves as validation of his commitment to both the Maryland Smith community and his profession. It is also meaningful, he says, because of his longstanding involvement in NACA, which dates back to his sophomore year of college.

“I'm truly honored, overjoyed and excited to receive this award and want to share this achievement with the Maryland Smith community,” says Claiborne. “I'm thankful to the Smith School for continuing to support my professional development and involvement with NACA since making the transition to academic affairs at Maryland Smith in 2016.” 

Claiborne was selected among his peers from member schools across the country. He was presented with the award during NACA’s virtual award ceremony on Wednesday, which can be viewed on the organization’s Facebook page.