ASU professor commissioned as Kentucky Colonel

An Augusta State University professor recently received the highest award bestowed by the state of Kentucky for service to the state.

Dr. Louise Rice, associate professor of reading in Learning Support/University College, was made an honorary Kentucky Colonel Jan. 26 by Kentucky Gov. Paul Patton. Rice joined the ranks of past recipients including President Lyndon B. Johnson, English Prime Minister Winston Churchill, golfer Tiger Woods, and actress Whoopie Goldberg.

“It was a great honor,” said Rice. “I was not aware that such an award existed, and they kept emphasizing this was a rare presentation,” she said.

“When I returned to campus, a colleague mentioned a chemist-turned-writer who had received the honor in the past. It was then that I realized – considering the others of whom I was aware – the magnitude of the award,” she said.

Rice was in Kentucky to speak at a luncheon in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Delta Sigma Theta Lexington alumnae chapter. As a distinguished visitor, Rice also received the keys to the city of Lexington.

Rice is national first vice president for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. As first vice president, she is in charge of scholarships and standards for the organization. In the Lexington area, she recently assisted in the re-establishment of one collegiate chapter and advised the alumnae chapter and three collegiate chapters on how to provide services to improve the welfare of the citizens
of their community and the state at large.

Jacques Wigginton, Lexington city councilman, and Tava Clay, president of the Lexington alumnae chapter, presented the award on behalf of Patton.