November 7, 2016
University names building for former vice provost and dean Elizabeth Unger
I am pleased that Gen. Myers and the President's Cabinet approved naming the building at 2323 Anderson Ave. the Unger Complex in honor of Elizabeth "Beth" Unger. Unger served as the university's vice provost for academic services and technology and dean of continuing education from 1994 to 2007.
Beth has been involved with Kansas State University for more than 45 years and has made many significant and visible impacts at K-State during that time. She served as a role model and mentor for me throughout my career at K-State. We are pleased to recognize her as a visionary K-State leader and a true pioneer for women in technology.
"I am overwhelmed to receive this recognition," Unger said. "It has been a privilege to work for Kansas State University through the years and an honor to work alongside so many good people, not only as an educator but also as an administrator in an effort to advance the technological growth and vibrancy of the university."
Unger started her career at K-State as the associate director of the Computing Center in 1966. She served as a professor of computer science since the department's creation and as associate dean of the Graduate School from 1990 to 1994. As vice provost and dean, Unger led the development of K-State Online, design and development of the technology enhanced classrooms, initiation of Global Campus using the Internet, and the creation of the Information Technology Assistance Center, or iTAC. She continues to provide guidance and support to the department of computer science and Information Technology. Unger has been a strong advocate for women on campus and was a leader in advocating that women's athletics become part of the NCAA. She has written 120 papers in data and data security, six books and guided 18 doctoral students and more than 200 master's students to degrees from K-State.
University officials invited students, faculty and staff to submit building name suggestions for the building, also known as the old Foundation building. After a review by a working group, the campus community voted on the top four recommended names and President's Cabinet recommended the final selection. The tower will remain dedicated to Arthur F. Loub in recognition of his outstanding leadership and service as president of the KSU Foundation.
"I am humbled to join the 17 women with buildings named in their honor who have worked to make K-State a great university," Unger said. "Thank you to the K-State community for this great honor."
The Unger Complex houses a variety of university departments as a result of recent space migration phases. Offices within the building include the Office of the Chief Information Officer and Vice Provost for Information Technology Services, including the Information Systems Office, the Information Security and Compliance Office, and the Office of Mediated Education; the Testing Center; the Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation; Engineering Extension; and portions of the Division of Financial Services: Fund Balancing, General Accounting, Information Systems, Sponsored Programs Accounting and Purchasing. Previous occupants of the building include Farm Bureau and the KSU Foundation.
Sincerely,
Cindy Bontrager
Vice President for Administration and Finance