June 28, 2006

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- Dr. Gerald Gurney, the University of Oklahoma's associate athletics director for academic affairs, was honored by the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A) on Sunday as the recipient of the Lan Hewlett Award. The association is comprised of approximately 700 professionals involved in academic support for collegiate student-athletes.

The Lan Hewlett Award, named for a long-time University of Texas advisor, is considered the top honor in the profession. The award is presented annually by the (N4A) for outstanding performance as an academic advisor for athletics and recognizes sustained professional service, a high level of competence in administrative skills, merited professional stature, innovation in meeting the needs of student-athletes, effectiveness in the development of junior staff, significant contributions to the field through publications and professional development, and leadership in university affairs.

"This award is humbling because it comes from my peers in the field and I feel honored to be recognized," said Gurney. "It is reflective of all the contributions of my terrific staff and the opportunities and resources made possible by the University of Oklahoma.

"I¹m especially appreciative of the remarkable leadership at the University of Oklahoma and all the mentors in my life, like Dr. Prentice Gautt, who helped to shape my career. I try to honor their tutelage by opening doors for future promising professionals."

Gurney, who is in charge of OU¹s academic and student life services for the more than 500 student-athletes, joined the staff in September of 1993.

Since his arrival, Gurney has merged all support functions into one area with a focus on graduation and preparation of the student-athlete for the world after college. With Gurney leading this effort, OU received the NCAA/USA Today Academic Achievement Award in 2003 for the University¹s record 74% student-athlete graduation rate. He was awarded the Outstanding Adjunct Professor award in 2004 and the Distinguished Service award in 2005 from the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Department for his contributions to the Higher Education Administration program emphasis in Intercollegiate Athletics Administration.