ISU faculty and staff recognized the outstanding work of their colleagues Monday during the Spring Convocation and Awards Ceremony.

Interim President Richard Seagrave recognized more than 35 faculty members at the ceremony, titled “Honoring Our Best and Brightest,” in the Sun Room of the Memorial Union.

“Today is one of the greatest days of the year when we get to do what we like best,” he said. “That is to recognize our colleagues of their achievements.”

The title of distinguished professor was given to three professors, a recognition deemed the highest academic honor bestowed by Iowa State.

Provost Rollin Richmond said faculty members are recognized for performance in teaching and advising, research, scholarship or artistic creativity and extension, university service or professional practice.

As several people were offering congratulations to Cornelia Flora, professor of agricultural sociology, she commented on her feelings about winning the Charles F. Curtiss Distinguished Professor of Agriculture.

“This is the most thrilling moment I have had at Iowa State,” she said. “I have really enjoyed being here.”

Flora has only been a part of the ISU faculty since 1994.

“Iowa State is a quality institution that cares about its students,” she said. “I feel there is a great deal of university support and an appreciation for innovation.”

David Williams, professor of agricultural education and studies, was named one of the seven university professors.

The recognition of university professor is given to a senior faculty member who has had a significant impact on his or her department and the university in the areas of teaching, research and professional service, Richmond said.

Williams was recognized for his work in teaching, research and outreach.

“I just tell my students to find something they love and have passion for and go for it,” he said.