As co-founder of the University’s longest running student service organization, formerAssociate Director for Student Affairs Rick Rees (Speech, ’74; Credential, ’75) began making lasting contributions to Chico State while he was still an undergraduate student.

Rees was working toward his degree in education when he helped start Community ActionVolunteers in Education (CAVE). Run by the Associated Students, the program connects students with a range of local service opportunities, from preserving Bidwell Park to assisting emergency housing shelters. Rees served as co-director of CAVE after he graduated and oversaw staffing, budgeting, fundraising, and day-to-day operations.

In 1980, he began working in the Student Affairs office as an advisor, where he dedicated thousands of hours to coaching students and spoke at numerous student leadership conferences and training courses.

In his later role as associate director of Student Affairs, Rees oversaw more than 200 student organizations, including 25 fraternities and sororities, during some of the University’s most challenging times. Through situations arising from Pioneer Days, rioting,alcohol and drug scandals, student deaths and attempts by faculty and staff to take over student organizations, Rees provided steadfast leadership by dealing with the facts, sharing information, and displaying compassion toward all those involved.

He was part of a team that implemented numerous harm reduction and prevention strategies to combat Chico State’s “party school” image, including persuading AcademicSenate to change the date of spring break and implementing a mandatory alcohol education program for all freshmen and transfer students.

Throughout his career, he served as a trusted advisor for many of the University’s high visibility, public-facing events. He was one of the first co-directors of the SummerOrientation program and upheld the University’s policy on time, place and manner.“In high-stress situations, Rick used his calm confidence and demeanor to prevent panic among students and coworkers. He was excellent at assessing the various situations and providing sound advice as to next steps,” said Herman Ellis, retired associate vice president for Student Affairs and 2016 ERFSA Hall of Honor inductee.

Rees’ service extended beyond the campus and included two terms on the Chico UnifiedSchool District board of trustees, the City’s special events task force, and the Police Chief’s advisory committee. He was actively involved in The Esplanade League.

After his retirement in 2011, Student Life and Leadership established the Rick Rees UnsungHero Award, recognizing students whose above-and-beyond contributions have made a positive impact.