This award was established in 1990 by faculty, friends and former students in honor of esteemed professor emeritus, Dr. William Van Til, who served as the Coffman Distinguished Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and Media Technology from 1967 to 1977. Bea has been his faithful wife, companion, and supporter for more than 70 years. Their shared commitment to academia resulted in many new knowledge contributions to education. This award will be given to a current student in education whose entered writing effort is judged superior by a faculty committee appointed by the chair of the department.