The award is given annually by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA).

Goodnight is a former dean of men at the University of Wisconsin and served as NASPA's founding president from 1919-1920. He has been described by his colleagues as the "Dean's Dean."

"We're very pleased that NASPA has selected Dr. Miser for this important award," said UH Hilo Chancellor Rose Tseng. "Everyone from our students to administrators have benefited tremendously from his dynamic leadership and the special passion he brings to his job each and every day. The entire University joins me in congratulating him for receiving the recognition he so richly deserves."

The Scott Goodnight Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate personal commitment to student affairs administration, high-level competency in administrative skills, innovative response in meeting students' varied and emerging needs, effectiveness in developing junior staff members, and leadership in community and university affairs.