Former Kansas University Chancellor Gene Budig and his wife, Gretchen, have established the Budig Teaching Professorship of Writing, a $5,000 annual award for KU faculty in education or journalism. The professorship begins in 2007.

It will go to faculty members who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in the teaching of writing.

The award may be used for salary support, travel and other costs associated with the advancement of the professorship.

It will alternate between the School of Education and the School of Journalism.

The Budigs provided lead support for the $100,000 professorship fund at KU Endowment Association. Additional support came from friends and associates of the Budigs. Gene Budig was KU’s chancellor from 1981 to 1994. He is a senior presidential adviser for the College Board.