Purpose
The Thomas Jefferson Award, funded through a grant from the Robert Earll McConnell Foundation, honors a member of the University of Missouri community who "through personal influence and performance of duty in teaching, writing and scholarship, character and influence, devotion and loyalty to the University best exemplifies the principles and ideals of Thomas Jefferson." For example, Jefferson encouraged competition among ideas, rejected superstition in favor of a scientific and rational world view, believed that society and government should be tolerant of differences, supported free public education and the application of knowledge to the solution of public problems, and was devoted to free expression.
In light of its stated purpose, the Thomas Jefferson Award recognizes individuals who rise above excellence and demonstrate clear distinction in teaching, research, writing, creative activities, and service to the University of Missouri and humankind.
Previous UMSL Award Winners:
2011 Marvin W. Berkowitz, Educational Psychology, Research & Evaluation
2007 Michael Harris, Professor of Management and Fellow, Center for International Studies and International Business Institute
2001 Steven Hause, Department of History
1997 Donald Phares, Professor of Economics and Public Policy
1992 Doris Trojcak, Professor of Education
1990 Joy Eugene Whitener, Dean Emeritus, Evening College and Professor of Education
1984 Sioma Kagan, Emeritus Professor of International Business
1981 James H Laue, Associate Professor of Sociology
1975 James Neil Primm, Professor of History
1969 James L. Bugg, Jr., Former Chancellor - University of Missouri-St. Louis
1968 John Neihart, Poet, University of Missouri-St. Louis
