Department honors Richard Whelan with 2008 Field Leadership Award

Richard Whelan, University of Kansas distinguished professor emeritus, is the 2008 recipient of the KU Department of Special Education Field Leadership Award. This annual award recognizes leaders who have had a lasting impact on the field of special education through their contributions as researchers, educators, policy makers, and advocates. In recent years, the Department has similarly honored Drs. Lou Danielson, Jane West, Dick Schiefelbusch, and Mr. Stan Love.

Chriss Walther-Thomas, professor and chair of KU special education, shared why Whelan is a highly deserved candidate for the honor. “For more than 50 years, Dick’s visionary leadership, creativity, good humor, and tireless efforts have influenced the lives and educational opportunities of countless children and adults with disabilities,” said Walther-Thomas. In addition, “as a scholar, mentor, innovator, and administrator, he contributed to the professional development of hundreds of doctoral students and thousands of teachers and school administrators,” said Walther-Thomas.

Whelan received the award at the Department’s 50th Anniversary reception at the Council for Exceptional Children meeting in Boston, Mass., on April 4. A reception also was held on the Lawrence KU campus on May 2.

During his special education career, spanning more than 50 years, Whelan has served as KU faculty colleague, department chair, and dean of education. Early in his career, his innovative research related to emotional disabilities, personnel preparation, doctoral education, and service delivery helped shape public thinking at both state and national levels. He has authored or co-authored more than 100 publications in the areas of emotional and behavioral disabilities, leadership development, and program administration.

KU Special Education colleagues Ed Meyen and Don Deshler praised Whelan’s selection for the Department’s Field Leadership Award: “When one thinks of leadership roles, few people in our profession have impacted the field of special education as has Dick Whelan,” said Ed Meyen. “Even in retirement he continues to serve the field. He is a superb choice.” Deshler agreed: “ Dick Whelan is an inspiration to all who work with him. He is a man of vision and great integrity.”

A book of letters was presented to Dr. Whelan at the KU reception in May. Those wanting to contribute to this collection may send a letter, note, or card to: Kelly Scott, University of Kansas, Department of Special Education, 521 JRP, 1122 W. Campus Rd., Lawrence, KS 66045-3101 ( specialeduadm@ku.edu; 785/864-0556).

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