Submitted/James Butler Jr.

James Butler Jr., senior scientist at the Kansas Geological Survey, recently gave a lecture at Peking University in Beijing. He is pictured with his wife, Yun, in front of a sign welcoming him. Butler is the 2007 Henry Darcy Distinguished Lecturer of the National Ground Water Association.

Submitted/Elizabeth Asiedu

Neal Becker, right, assistant professor of economics, was honored with the first Oswald Award for Excellence in Teaching in Economics. Presenting the award is Joe Sicilian, department chair. Becker was chosen for dedicated, excellent service in teaching and advising.

David McKinney/University Relations

Continuing Education presented Distinguished Service Awards to several KU employees recently. Above, Fred Pawlicki, director, and Gina Gregg, right, present an award to Rose Marino, associate general counsel.

David McKinney/University Relations

U.S. Rep. Nancy Boyda, D-Kan., spoke to the Kansas chapter of the American Chemical Society at the Dole Institute of Politics recently. Boyda and other speakers discussed legislation designed to improve math and science education and keep the United States competitive in the global economy.

R. Steve Dick/University Relations

Jerry Wilson, F.O. Custodial Services holds up the plaque he received for being named University Support Staff Employee of the Year.

Lauren Beatty/University Relations

Vince Avila, associate director of student housing maintenance, accepts the Unclassified Staff Employee of the Year Award from Chancellor Robert Hemenway. Wilson and Avila were honored at a ceremony last month that also recognized retiring KU employees for their years of service.

Lauren Beatty/University Relations

Rebecca Smith, director of public relations for KU Libraries, takes a moment to view the landscape at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve near Strong City. Smith was a participant of Unclassified Senate's mini Wheat State Whirlwind Tour last month. The tour also made stops in Council Grove, Cottonwood Falls and Topeka.