Faculty members who have met the university’s challenge of becoming their best were honored at the annual spring convocation.

There have been challenges to students, challenges in terms of the university’s financial foundation and challenges to the nation after Sept. 11, President Gregory Geoffroy said during the opening speech. The ceremony was in the Sun Room of the Memorial Union on Wednesday afternoon.

“Challenging students to become their best should be our constant theme of what we do,” Geoffroy said.

“I commend all of you who have responded to this challenge.”

Geoffroy also spoke about his goals for Iowa State when he began his term as the university’s president last summer. He said he wanted a top-quality education, outstanding service to Iowa and an increase in academic excellence.

“We need to make Iowa State the best university in the nation in fulfilling its land grant university mission,” he said.

“That’s the right goal for this university.”

The university has been able to move forward because of the quality and dedication of the faculty, Geoffroy said.

“It’s the people of Iowa State that make this a truly great university, and it’s our people who will make it even better,” he said.

Provost Rollin Richmond presented the awards to faculty members.

Richmond said it was fitting that one of his last experiences at Iowa State was to recognize people he has worked with and for whom he is grateful.

Several professors were awarded distinguished and university professor status.

“I’m pleased to see the richness of expertise and enthusiasm and commitment to academic excellence represented by the awards given today,” said Rebecca Burnett, professor of English who was awarded university professor status.

Robert Mazur, associate professor of sociology, and Max Wortman, distinguished professor of management, were recognized for their international service.

“Nobody does the work they do simply to get an award,” Mazur said.

Wortman said he has always liked the convocation ceremony because it is a way to recognize faculty in ways other than promotions or raises.

“It’s a big thank-you to the people here,” he said.