University of Kansas Jayhawk Achievements: Academic Honors Spotlight
For the University of Kansas community, the December 2025 edition of KU Kudos offers a comprehensive look at the breadth of excellence that defines the Jayhawk spirit. From faculty research breakthroughs to student leadership milestones, the article showcases the diverse ways in which KU scholars and staff are shaping their fields and the world. This article distills those highlights into actionable insights for students, alumni, and prospective applicants who want to understand how to engage with, celebrate, and build upon these achievements.
KU Kudos: A Pulse on Campus Excellence
KU Kudos is a quarterly feature that aggregates external honors, awards, and recognitions earned by faculty, staff, and affiliates across the Lawrence, Edwards, and Medical Center campuses. The December 2025 issue, released on December 15, 2025, lists more than 70 individual accolades, ranging from national teaching awards to international research fellowships. The publication serves several purposes:
- It publicly acknowledges the hard work of the KU community.
- It provides a record of achievements that can be cited in grant proposals, promotion dossiers, and alumni communications.
- It offers a model for others to follow by showcasing the pathways to recognition.
Because the article is curated from multiple sources—websites, social media, newsletters—readers gain a holistic view of the university’s impact across disciplines.
Spotlight on Key Academic Honors
Below are some of the most notable recognitions highlighted in the December issue, illustrating the range of fields where KU scholars excel:
Engineering and Physical Sciences
- Elaina Sutley, associate professor of civil, environmental & architectural engineering, became the first KU faculty member to receive the Blavatnik National Award for Young Scientists in the Physical Sciences and Engineering category.
- Brian Laird, chemistry professor, was named a Fellow of the American Physical Society, a distinction awarded to only a handful of physicists each year.
Health and Medicine
- Christy Evers, clinical assistant professor in the School of Nursing, was honored as a fellow of the American College of Nurse Midwives.
- Prakash Neupane, professor of medical oncology, received fellowship status from the American Society of Clinical Oncology, underscoring his contributions to cancer research.
Social Sciences and Humanities
- Murali Mantrala, Ned Fleming Professor of Marketing, earned the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Marketing Association’s Selling and Sales Management Special Interest Group.
- R.B. Perelmutter, director of Jewish studies, won the World Fantasy Award for Best Novella for “Yoke of Stars,” a testament to KU’s creative scholarship.
Public Service and Leadership
- Jack Campbell and Crystal Golightley, captains of the KU Police Department, completed the Law Enforcement Leadership Academy Command School, a rigorous 11‑month program that prepares officers for senior command roles.
- Nick Carswell, program manager with Kansas Public Radio, received a Phoenix Award for his contributions to musical arts and advocacy.
How to Submit Your Own Achievements
KU Kudos invites the entire community to share their professional milestones. The process is straightforward:
- Gather documentation of the award or honor, including official announcements, certificates, or press releases.
- Visit the KU Kudos submission page and fill out the online form.
- Include a brief description of the achievement’s significance and its impact on your field or the university.
- Submit by the deadline (January 14 for the next edition).
Self‑nominations are encouraged, and the publication team reviews each entry for relevance and verifiability. By sharing your accomplishments, you not only celebrate your success but also inspire peers and future generations of Jayhawks.
Leveraging Honors for Career Advancement
Academic honors can serve as powerful catalysts for career growth. Here are practical ways to maximize their impact:
- Update your CV and LinkedIn profile: Highlight awards in a dedicated section, using concise bullet points that emphasize the award’s prestige and relevance.
- Use honors in grant proposals: Many funding agencies consider past recognition as evidence of expertise and leadership.
- Seek speaking opportunities: Award recipients are often invited to conferences, panels, and workshops, providing visibility and networking prospects.
- Mentor students: Share your journey with undergraduates and graduate students, demonstrating the pathways to excellence.
Community Impact and Outreach
Several KU scholars have translated their research into tangible benefits for Kansas communities. For example:
- Joyce Grayson, director of KU Rural Health Education and Services, was honored by Governor Laura Kelly for her leadership in rural health initiatives.
- Scott Ishman and colleagues from the Kansas Geological Survey presented their findings at the Geological Society of America, informing water resource management across the state.
These stories illustrate how academic honors extend beyond personal accolades, fostering societal progress and reinforcing the university’s role as a public servant.
Upcoming Events and Opportunities
KU Kudos is not a one‑time event. The December issue is part of a series that runs six to seven times a year. Future editions will feature:
- New award recipients across all campuses.
- Spotlights on interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Opportunities for students to apply for research grants and fellowships.
Stay informed by subscribing to the KU News mailing list or following the university’s social media channels.
Take the Next Step in Your Academic Journey
Whether you are a current student, a faculty member, or a prospective applicant, the achievements highlighted in KU Kudos demonstrate the high standards and supportive environment that define the University of Kansas. By engaging with these stories, you can:
- Identify role models and mentors within your field.
- Explore research opportunities that align with your interests.
- Understand the pathways to national and international recognition.
Ready to join the ranks of Jayhawk achievers? Apply to the University of Kansas today and start building a future marked by excellence.
Additional Resources
For more information on how to submit your own achievements, visit the submission page. If you have questions or would like to discuss potential collaborations, contact the KU News Service today.
Join the conversation by sharing your own experiences in the comments below or by connecting with the KU community on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
