An Official Employee Publication From the Office of University Relations

Carolyn Bailey Berneking recently received the Award for Excellence from Kansas City Area Archivists for her contributions to historical research as a volunteer in University Archives and for her leadership in architectural preservation and her historical scholarship.

Berneking has volunteered since 1990 in University Archives at Spencer Research Library, following a career as a professional librarian in the Lawrence school system and in University Libraries. At University Archives, she continues a labor of love begun by her grandfather, E.H.S. Bailey, a former chair of the Department of Chemistry whose early efforts to save university history led to the creation of University Archives.

Bill Crowe, Spencer librarian, has known and worked with Berneking for more than ten years.

“Carolyn is a treasure and I am delighted that the professional community in this region has made this award,” Crowe said. “She personifies KU’s commitment to sharing its archival collections with the world.”

Berneking also was recognized for her commitment to the preservation of KU’s historic architecture. Through her leadership, Strong Hall was entered in the National Register of Historic Sites and Bailey Hall was placed on the Kansas Register of Historic Buildings. She also serves on the KU Endowment Association’s Historic Mount Oread Fund Committee.