KU News Release

Media advisory: KU chancellor to distribute Kemper fellowships

WHAT: The University of Kansas “surprise patrol” will visit the classrooms of five unsuspecting professors to present them with $5,000 checks and coveted W.T. Kemper Fellowships for Teaching Excellence.

WHEN: Group will leave at 9:25 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 21.

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

WHO: Chancellor Robert Hemenway 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 FELLOWSHIPS? 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 13th year, the awards are supported by a $650,000 gift from the William T. Kemper Foundation (Commerce Bank, trustee) and $650,000 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.

KU Endowment is the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment is the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.

The award presentations will continue through Tuesday, Sept. 2. 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.