Fort Hays State University honored six outstanding alumni, set to be announced Homecoming weekend, September 25-27. Among this year’s honorees is Police Commander, Benjamin A. Kelso of San Diego, recipient of the prestigious Alumni Achievement Award – the university’s highest recognition for graduates.
“This year, we’re recognizing an incredible group of Fort Hays State alumni,” said FHSU President Dr. Tisa Mason, “Each award recipient embodies the definition of Tiger spirit through and through, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate them at Homecoming.”
The Alumni Achievement Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional service to their professions, communities, or society at large.
Commander Kelso brings over 35 years of exemplary service in law enforcement, holding leadership roles such as captain, lieutenant, and sergeant. His expertise spans neighborhood policing, traffic and youth services, homeland security, and high-performance team development. A respected advocate for community engagement, Kelso is widely recognized for fostering collaboration and trust between law enforcement and local communities.
An alumnus of the FBI National Academy, Kelso earned two advanced degrees from FHSU: a Master of Liberal Studies in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice. He has served on numerous boards and has been an adjunct faculty member at the University of San Diego since 2015. In 2022, he was named one of San Diego’s Top 50 Black Leaders of Influence.
Other award recipients include: Michelle (George) Dillard, Alumni Achievement Award; Jeffery “Jeff” Curtis, Distinguished Service Award; Michael “Mike” Slattery, Nita Landrum Award; Sara Brungardt and Jacie Hoyt, Young Alumni Award.
Congratulations, Commander Kelso, on this well-deserved honor!