William L. Turner Award for Outstanding Contributions to Extension and Continuing Education

This annual recognition is awarded to an individual whose significant contributions and accomplishments have enhanced and reinforced extension and continuing education as an integral component of engagement at NC State in responding to the educational needs of the various stakeholders served or in the application of research or technical services to real-life issues and problems.

Submission Information

• Nomination deadline: Friday, January 23, 2026, 5 p.m.
• Eligibility: Faculty and staff (active or retired), community leaders, as well as public and private sector professionals are eligible for nomination. Nominees will have been active partners with one or more NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education (NCSCaLE) units in the successful development and delivery of courses or research/technical services that effectively and efficiently meet the needs of a diverse constituent base.
• Review the selection criteria.
• One award will be presented each spring at the NC State Outreach and Engagement Awards Celebration and Reception. Save the date for the 2026 celebration March 24, 2026 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

About the Award

The William L. Turner Award for Outstanding Contributions to Extension and Continuing Education recognizes and memorializes the distinguished leadership of Dr. William Turner and his dedication to the land grant mission of NC State University. Dr. Turner, former professor of economics and Vice Chancellor for Extension and Public Service, had an illustrious professional career spanning from August 1948 through December 1989. As a result of his efforts, local as well as national, the role and value of continuing higher education was elevated, leading to the creation and adoption of the Continuing Education Unit (CEU) as a universal quality standard.

Past Award Winners

Learn more about past winners of the William L. Turner Award for Outstanding Contributions to Extension and Continuing Education.