Since her appointment to the faculty in 1989, Buck has distinguished herself in service that cuts across the boundaries of her department, her college, the university and her profession. She is a member of international, national, regional and state professional organizations, and she has held numerous leadership positions in them all. Perhaps her highest office was as president for one of her profession's primary organizations, the National Association for Kinesiology and Physical Education in Higher Education. 

Among the special recognitions she has already received for professional service is the 2001 Service Award from the National Association for Physical Education in Higher Education. The Midwest District of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance also gave her an Honor Award in 2006 and a Meritorious Service Award in 2004. Clearly, her service has been recognized at very high levels in her profession. In addition, she has been an outstanding teacher and prolific scholar who has contributed to her field and rigorously driven its progression.

At Ball State, Buck has served as chairperson of the University Senate for three years, the Core Curriculum Task Forces for four years and the Strategic Planning Task Force. She has served on cabinet-level search committees, and she has been a member and chair of too many other university committees to mention. Service to her own department is also laudable. She has been on many of the department's search committees and promotion and tenure committees and has been coordinator of several physical education programs.

Further, her personal qualities are beyond reproach, for she demonstrates the utmost in integrity and strong character.