According to the Office of Academic Affairs at Loyola University New Orleans, the Dux Academicus award recognizes a member of the faculty who “through demonstrated ability is able to impart the knowledge and wisdom of the liberal arts and sciences or the professions to students in a manner consistent with the distinctive philosophy of Loyola as a Jesuit institution of higher education.” The 2014 award was given to the late Kurt Birdwhistell, Ph.D., who was also the Augustus Elmer, Jr., Distinguished Professor in Chemistry. A dynamic member of the Chemistry department since 1988, Birdwhistell worked to instill excitement and accountability at every level: From first-year seminars with new students to leadership as department Chair, the well-published faculty member also carried on research in the areas of green chemistry and catalysis. Read more about his life and accomplishments here.