December 8, 2011
Dean Holen awarded Golden Apple from Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom
The Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom recently presented Michael Holen, dean of the College of Education, with the Golden Apple award for years of unwavering support.
This award is only given to individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help the foundation meet its mission of connecting Kansas classrooms with agriculture. In many cases, the dedication of these individuals to the foundation's mission is astonishing.
“Dean Holen has been very supportive in every way over the years including helping us find funding,” said Cathy Musick, executive director for the foundation. “We have benefited daily from his leadership, executive experience and even his history. It has been an amazing asset for us to have a dean with an agriculture background.”
Holen demonstrated his support for the the foundation program by allocating the precious resources of space in Bluemont Hall and the college's employees’ time to help the foundation achieve its goals and mission. Holen also ensured the foundation's employees have the same benefits as state employees.
Recently, Holen announced he is moving to the School of Leadership Studies where he will continue to oversee the Midwest Equity Assistance Center, the National Academic Advising executive offices and the office of educational innovation and evaluation. At the end of the 2011-12 academic year, Holen will enter phased retirement.
“I am very honored by this award because I know the time and energy the foundation board members give to this program, so I know there are many deserving people,” Holen said. “Clearly for the state of Kansas, having a broad awareness of the importance of agriculture to our economy, lifestyle and values is crucial. Kansas State is the right place to be the home of this effort. I appreciate what KFAC has done to make education better for the children of Kansas.”