Former Athletic Director Bob Frederick deserves much of the credit for current efforts to recognize the academic achievements of Kansas University athletes.

There are those who are critical of former Kansas University Athletic Director Bob Frederick, just as there are those who are critical of current AD Lew Perkins, as well as Al Bohl, who served in that job between Frederick and Perkins. Each individual had, or has, his own strengths and weaknesses.

Earlier this week, KU athletes gathered for the annual KU Senior Scholar Athlete awards ceremony.

Although it may be lost in the minds of many, the primary purpose of a university is to provide a stimulating educational environment so that students will be better prepared to lead productive lives for the betterment of their communities.

It’s not to do whatever is required to field winning athletic teams, although a sound, honest and properly balanced athletic program can add to the overall positive environment and image of a university.

It should be noted Frederick was athletic director when the department started to recognize its top male and female senior scholar-athletes. The special attention to these students started in 1992 and the ceremony and awards have grown in stature and importance in the succeeding years.

Likewise, it is great to see the hundreds of KU athletes who have distinguished themselves in the classroom recognized at KU football and basketball games.

Frederick started an excellent tradition with the long-overdue recognition of the true scholar-athletes. Unfortunately, at too many universities, the term “scholar-athlete” is almost a joke with highly questionable academic requirements.

This is not the case at KU, and Frederick deserves the thanks and appreciation of KU fans and alumni for his attention and emphasis on the classroom, as well as the playing field.