KanREN Announces Inaugural Award Recipients
Kansas Research and Education Network (KanREN) proudly presented its first-ever organizational awards at the June Board of Directors meeting, honoring individuals whose exceptional leadership, collaboration, and service have significantly advanced KanREN’s mission.
The Foundation First Award
This award was presented to Matt Lindsey, President of the Kansas Independent College Association, in recognition of his steadfast leadership during a pivotal time for the organization. Matt served as Board Chair for two consecutive terms—twice the typical tenure—to ensure stability throughout the selection and onboarding of Executive Director Chris Crook.
The award citation reads: "In recognition of steady leadership, integrity, and enduring service that strengthened KanREN through a time of transformation. Your commitment to clarity, continuity, and collaboration laid the groundwork for a resilient future and empowered new leadership to grow."
The Connection Builder Award
Awarded to Tim Taylor, Vice President of Sales at Yellow Dog Networks, this honor recognizes external partners whose collaboration supports KanREN’s strategic goals. Tim worked closely with Chief Technology Officer Brad Fleming to negotiate substantial discounts on best-in-class hardware for KanREN’s 2024–2025 network upgrade.
His award states: “In recognition of outstanding collaboration, expertise, and commitment during KanREN’s core router hardware procurement and implementation project. Your efforts helped us secure the right solutions at the right price, strengthening our mission and our network."
The Amplifier Award
This award was presented to Jamie Jeffers, KanREN’s Business Operations Manager, for her leadership in coordinating a multi-member RFP for penetration testing services in partnership with Kansas Board of Regents institutions.
"In recognition of your outstanding leadership, initiative, and impact on the Penetration Testing Services RFP project. Your contributions amplified KanREN’s values and mission, creating lasting benefit for our members and organization."
Chris Crook, KanREN Executive Director says, “These inaugural awards celebrate the individuals and partnerships that exemplify KanREN’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in service to its members.”
About KanREN
KanREN is the Research and Education Network (R&E) in Kansas. Established in 1992, KanREN is a 501(c)(3) created by the public universities of Kansas. Created as a pioneer in R&E networks nationwide, KanREN shares resources, builds local, state and regional collaboration. Learn more at https://www.kanren.org/.