A former Lawrence public schools superintendent with a passion for public education is the recipient of this year’s Buford M. Watson Jr. Public Service award.

“I view myself as a missionary for public education,” said Dan Neuenswander, superintendent from 1984 to 1992. “Public education is kind of the basis for American society. It’s what maintains a literate electorate, so it’s absolutely critical.”

The Watson award, given annually since 1990 by the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce, honors people whose work in the public sector serves as a role model for others.

Neuenswander, 64, was nominated for the award by current Supt. Randy Weseman. Not coincidentally, it was Weseman who hired Neuenswander out of retirement two years ago to become “school improvement specialist.”

Neuenswander’s job is to keep the district’s principals focused on student performance, especially on standardized tests.

“What has most impressed me is Dan’s commitment to lifelong learning and his passion for quality education,” Weseman said. “He has consistently placed children’s opportunities for learning ahead of his career.”

Neuenswander said the core belief that motivates him in his job is a simple one: he believes every child can learn.

“I’ve been on a soap box about the necessity of teaching all children,” he said. “There are precious few who can’t learn and learn well.”

Dan Neuenswander has been named the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce's the Buford M. Watson Jr. Public Service award winner.

When he’s not working, Neuenswander might be practicing his landscape-photography skills or playing golf, something he took up after retirement.

“I play like a guy who never played before,” he said.

Also, he enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren and touring the country on motorcycle with his wife, Connie.

Neuenswander was superintendent at the time the award’s namesake was city manager. The two worked together for about six years.

“Buford was a model public servant,” he said. “I would guess that the award is a way to honor him and at the same time honor people who serve in that capacity.”