William L. Turner Award

The William L. Turner Award for Outstanding Contributions to Extension and Continuing Education recognizes and memorializes the distinguished leadership of Dr. William Turner and his dedication to the land grant mission of NC State University. Dr. Turner, former professor of economics and Vice Chancellor for Extension and Public Service, had an illustrious professional career spanning from August 1948 through December 1989. As a result of his efforts, local as well as national, the role and value of continuing higher education was elevated, leading to the creation and adoption of the Continuing Education Unit (CEU) as a universal quality standard.

This annual recognition is awarded to an individual whose significant contributions and accomplishments have enhanced and reinforced extension and continuing education as an integral component of engagement at NC State in responding to the educational needs of the various stakeholders served or in the application of research or technical services to real-life issues and problems.

One award will be presented each spring at the NC State Outreach and Engagement Awards Celebration and Reception.

Qualifying Characteristics

Nominees will have been active partners with one or more NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education units in the successful development and delivery of courses or research/technical services that effectively and efficiently meet the needs of a broad constituent base. Faculty and staff (active or retired), community leaders, as well as public and private sector professionals are eligible for nomination. Among the qualifying characteristics considered in the nomination process are:

Exemplifies the spirit of service, thereby enhancing NC State’s commitment to public engagement.
Provides distinguished leadership in the creation and development, implementation, or evaluation of lifelong learning courses, services, or related activities.
Improves the quality of life for North Carolina’s citizens through the application of NC State University’s knowledge, research, and technical resources.
Contributes to the “scholarship of engagement” through research, education and training programs, and publications or presentations, both on campus and throughout North Carolina communities.
Supports a culture of customer-focused approaches that support our outreach and extension initiatives.
Influences the establishment or refinement of public policy that addresses issues of significance to our constituents and the University’s stakeholders in general.
Extends the University knowledge and services to previously underserved citizens.
Makes substantial, enduring contributions to community development, public engagement, and outreach that impacts the well-being of North Carolina’s citizens.

NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education active personnel are not eligible.