PLAUDITS

 

Harner wins agricultural engineering award

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers recently named Joseph P. Harner, a K-State professor of biological and agricultural engineering, the 2009 winner of the Henry Giese Structures and Environment Award. The award is given for distinguished service in advancing the knowledge and science of agricultural structures and environment.

Harner, who is also interim head of his department, was honored for his accomplishments and contributions in the design and development of engineering practices for grain handling, storage and livestock systems.

Harner is internationally recognized for his efforts in improving grain storage, handling and processing technology, and for improved animal production and waste management systems. He has been a leader in engineering ways to reduce the environmental impact of animal feeding operations. Harner has also been involved in bringing fundamental engineering principles into the design and evaluation of heat abatement systems for conventional dairy structures.

The award was presented at a luncheon June 24 at the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers annual international meeting in Reno, Nev.

 

Gwinner invited to join Center for Services Leadership

Kevin Gwinner, head of K-State's department of marketing, has accepted an invitation to join Arizona State University's Center for Services Leadership as a research faculty member. In this role, Gwinner becomes part of formal community of academic thought leaders focused on advancing the field of services, while remaining at K-State.

The center strives to improve the business and academic understanding of the distinctive and growing role of services in organizations and with customers. To become a faculty network member, individuals must have an exceptional academic reputation, expertise within service research and a firm commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.

This invitation-only partnership provides a rare opportunity to network within this community and engage with industry executives and staff who share their commitment to advancing service.

Gwinner's research expertise is in the area of understanding and improving aspects of the employee-customer encounter, relational benefits in service businesses and corporate event sponsorship.