KU News Release

Media advisory: KU chancellor, provost to distribute Kemper fellowships

WHAT: The University of Kansas “surprise patrol” will visit the classrooms of six unsuspecting professors to present them with $5,000 checks and the coveted W.T. Kemper fellowships for excellence in teaching and advising.

WHEN: 8 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 16.

WHERE: Meet in front of Strong Hall on KU’s Lawrence campus.

WHO: Chancellor Robert Hemenway and Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Richard Lariviere will lead Thursday’s patrol.

MEDIA COVERAGE ARRANGEMENTS: University Relations will provide transportation to the first surprise patrol presentation. Media interested in covering subsequent presentations should call University Relations for arrangements.

WHAT ARE THE KEMPER AWARDS? The W.T. Kemper Fellowships for Teaching Excellence recognize outstanding teachers and advisers at KU as determined by a seven-member selection committee. Now in their 12th year, the awards were established by a $500,000 fund from the William T. Kemper Foundation (Commerce Bank, trustee) and $500,000 in matching funds from KU Endowment.

The William T. Kemper Foundation was established in 1989 after Kemper’s death. The foundation is dedicated to continuing Kemper’s lifelong interest in improving the human condition and quality of life. The foundation supports Midwest communities and concentrates on initiatives in education, health and human services, civic improvements and the arts.

The award presentations will continue through Thursday, Aug. 23. In all, 20 professors will be honored and $100,000 distributed.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.