Professor Recognized Again for Work in Appalachia

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2009) − On the heels of winning the prestigious Weatherford Award, Ronald D. Eller, an associate professor of history at the University of Kentucky and University Press of Kentucky author, was presented with the East Kentucky Leadership Foundation’s annual “private individual” award. The honor recognizes individuals whose private service is dedicated to the betterment of the region.

Former director of UK's Appalachian Center, Eller is the author of "Uneven Ground: Appalachia since 1945," which was released last fall. "Uneven Ground" takes an analytical look at the recent transformation of Appalachian life as the region has struggled to meet the nation’s expectations of progress and maintain a suitable standard of living for its residents. Eller's book points out real political and economic issues that the region faced during this time period and examines the impact of the War on Poverty and other Great Society initiatives.

As winner of the East Kentucky Leadership Foundation's "private individual" award, Eller received a handmade wooden chair. Established in 1987, the East Kentucky Leadership Foundation brings together leaders and community members from all walks of life and throughout Eastern Kentucky to discuss issues important to the region. The foundation’s goal is to make everyone a speaker, listener and most importantly, an effective leader to address the problems facing Eastern Kentucky.

Source