Three West Virginia University researchers are recipients of the 2002 Benedum Distinguished Scholar Awards for their scientific and scholarly achievements.

This years Benedum Scholars are mechanical engineering Professor Ismail B. Celik, librarian John A. Cuthbert and physiology Professor William T. Stauber.

“These three researchers have contributed greatly to the research mission of the University by performing outstanding work in their respective fields of engineering, the humanities and medicine,”said C.B. Wilson, associate provost for academic personnel.

The award recipients will present individual lectures related to their fields in March and April. They will accept their $2,500 award at a special convocation at 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, in the Mountainlair Ballroom as part of WVU s Weekend of Honors. Both the lectures and convocation are open to the public.

The lecture schedule is as follows:

• Tuesday, March 19 Dr. Celik, Turbulence, Uncertainty and Engineering, 4 p.m., Mountainlair, Rhododendron Room

• Tuesday, April 2 Dr. Cuthbert, A Brief Introduction to West Virginia Art History, 4 p.m., Mountainlair, Rhododendron Room

• Monday, April 15 Dr. Stauber, Development of Skeletal Muscle Pathology from Repeated Strains, 4 p.m., Mountainlair, Rhododendron Room

The Benedum and Distinguished Professors of WVU established the Benedum Distinguished Scholar Awards in 1985-86 to honor and reward University faculty for excellence in research, scholarship or creative endeavors. The awards recognize either a single recent achievement of note or a long, distinguished career that is still ongoing. The program is funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and coordinated by the Office of Academic Affairs and Research.