Dr. Philip Browning of the AU College of Education has been named the recipient of Auburn's second annual Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach.

"Phil Browning is a world-class faculty member at Auburn," said David Wilson, associate provost and vice president for university outreach  . "His research and outreach have touched the lives of thousands of individuals across the nation."

Wilson added, "He is the epitome of the type of scholar at Auburn that improves the lives of people."

A member of the AU faculty and head of the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education since 1989, Browning is also the Wayne T. Smith distinguished professor in the College of Education.

In 1991, he initiated a series of "transition conferences" with a startup grant from the Office of the Vice President for Extension, now AU Outreach. The conferences were designed to help those with disabilities make the transition from school to the working world.

Browning was also instrumental in establishing the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute in the College of Education. And since the first seed grant, the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education has secured more than $28 million in grants and contracts.

Bill East, executive director of the National Association of State Directors of Special Education Inc., said Browning's outreach programs have long been a model for the nation.

"His transition conferences have been recognized as the best in the nation for many years," said East. "His outreach into the communities throughout Alabama has benefited many individuals with disabilities and their families, and has brought much recognition to Auburn University."

East added, "I have talked with students and families that have a better life because Phil Browning shared his expertise outside of Auburn University to the State Department of Education, local school districts and local communities—ultimately reaching the individuals who need help in transition from school to successful adult living."

Mabrey Whetstone, director of special education services in the Alabama State Department of Education, nominated Browning for the award. "While outreach programs and activities have served as the primary platform from which he has advocated, research and instructional activities have served to strengthen his base and guide his actions," said Whetstone.

Browning holds a doctorate in rehabilitation and special education from the University of Wisconsin. Before joining the Auburn faculty, he was a professor and director of rehabilitation programs at the University of Oregon.

Article reprinted from the March 25, 2005 edition of the AU Report  .