June 1, 2004

Contact: Paula Naughtin, School of Education, (785) 864-3758.

Kansas education commissioner receives KU alumni service award

LAWRENCE -- The University of Kansas School of Education honored Andy Tompkins, Kansas commissioner of education, May 22 at the Lied Center during its annual convocation. He received the KU School of Education Alumni Distinguished Service Award, which is granted to a graduate who has contributed exemplary service to the fields of education or human services.

The award recognizes the outstanding leadership Tompkins has provided throughout the state and nation on behalf of children, teachers and public education.

Tompkins has served as Kansas commissioner of education since 1996.

A former high school English teacher, high school principal, superintendent, faculty member, department chair and interim dean, Tompkins received his doctorate in educational administration from KU in 1977. His other awards include Kansas Superintendent of the Year.