June 4, 2004
Contact: Jo Ann Lloyd
(8050 756-1511
Cal Poly Names Two Longtime Professors
To Receive University’s First Distinguished Research Award
SAN LUIS OBISPO – Cal Poly has named two longtime professors, both
internationally known in their fields, to receive the university’s
Distinguished Research, Creative Activity, and Professional Development
Award for 2003-2004, the first year for the award program.
BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Professor Charles Burt and Art
and Design Professor Joanne Ruggles were recognized for outstanding
accomplishments in research and creative endeavors. They will be honored
at morning commencement ceremonies June 12 and during the university’s
Fall Conference General Session on Sept. 13.
“This new award acknowledges the important place of research, creative
and scholarly activity in the careers of Cal Poly’s outstanding
and
dedicated teaching faculty,” said Cal Poly President Warren Baker.
“Professors Burt and Ruggles’ work in diverse fields graphically
illustrates the scope and breadth of our faculty’s professional
interests and competencies. They are very worthy recipients of the
inaugural award.”
Burt, who lives in San Luis Obispo, was honored “for his leadership
and
exemplary accomplishments related to irrigation, canal modernization,
and efficiency in the use of water resources,” according to remarks
by
selection committee members.
Additional comments by colleagues included:
• “His contributions to Cal Poly through the creation and
leadership of
the Irrigation Training and Research Center has brought worldwide
recognition to Cal Poly’s leadership in this field.”
• “His research activities and teaching have inspired generations
of
students in this area.”
• “He is internationally recognized through his extensive
publications,
awards and service as advisor to many public agencies and industrial
organizations.”
Burt, a Cal Poly alumnus, has been teaching at Cal Poly since 1978. He
earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Cal Poly in 1973 and a master’s
degree (1975) and doctorate (1983) from Utah State University.
Ruggles, also of San Luis Obispo, was singled out for outstanding
accomplishments as an artist and a teacher.
Colleagues said:
• “She is internationally recognized for her creative work
in depicting
the human figure and form.”
• “Her work has been displayed at many major museums and
exhibits
throughout the United States, Asia and Europe, as well as South and
Central America.”
• “Her widespread peer recognition for the importance of
her work is
matched only by her recognized talent to inspire and challenge students
toward new ways of thinking.”
Ruggles joined the Cal Poly faculty in 1973. She earned a Bachelor of
Fine Arts degree in 1968 and a master’s in 1970, both from Ohio
State
University.
The new Distinguished Research, Creative Activity and Professional
Development Award recognizes achievement in research, creative work and
other professional development activities. It is intended to support
research and other creative endeavors and to encourage faculty efforts
toward professional growth and achievement.
“Cal Poly is very pleased to honor Professors Burt and Ruggles
for
their significant achievements in the area of research, creative
activity and professional development,” said Interim Provost Bob
Detweiler. “They epitomize the strengths of our faculty and the
professional development work they accomplish in their respective
disciplines, which ultimately benefit the students of Cal Poly and their
academic programs.”
Burt and Ruggles were selected from a group of 23 nominees and 10
finalists.
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