Contact: Ralph Derickson

The Paul Kevin Burberry Award will be given annually to a student who demonstrates a strong commitment to people with disabilities through university and community projects and experiences as well as the leadership qualities exemplified by Burberry.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 16, 2004) -- The Interdisciplinary Human Development Institute (IHDI) at the University of Kentucky has created an award honoring UK student Paul Kevin Burberry, an IHDI consultant who had cerebral palsy from birth, but who still managed to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy from the UK College of Arts and Sciences, graduating magna cum laude after 10 years of effort. Burberry died Sept. 11, 2003.

The Paul Kevin Burberry Award will be given annually to a student who demonstrates a strong commitment to people with disabilities through university and community projects and experiences as well as the leadership qualities exemplified by Burberry.

The nominating period runs through May 1, and the $500 award will be announced July 2.

“Kevin was a shining star and source of inspiration for all people,” said Harold Kleinert, IHDI executive director. “We are excited to be able to offer this award as a tribute to Kevin’s accomplishments not only in the classroom, but also in life.”

For information about the award or to nominate a student, contact Barney Fleming at (859) 257-7225 or bflemin@uky.edu or visit the IHDI Web site.

Burberry, who had cerebral palsy, spent much of his life in Berea. He was the first student with significant physical disabilities to complete Berea Community High School, graduating with honors. He also attended Berea College and the University of Kentucky, where he was majoring in philosophy. He would have graduated this May.