MUNCIE, Ind. - Major General Stewart W. Wallace, Commanding General of the Army’s ROTC Cadet Command, awarded Ball State University President John E. Worthen, the Department of the Army Outstanding Civilian Service Medal.

The prestigious medal recognizes President Worthen’s service from July 1984 through June 2000. During that time, the Ball State University Army ROTC program commissioned over 200 officers for service to the United States Army.

At a special ceremony May 19 at the Administration Building, Lieutenant Colonel Tim Warrick, Ball State Professor of Military Science, recent ROTC graduates and Department of Military Science faculty presented President Worthen the impressive medal set and matching Department of the Army certificate.

Presenting the award on behalf of General Wallace, LTC Warrick recognized President Worthen’s distinguished service to the nation and the Department of the Army officer commissioning program. Thanks to President Worthen, the character and quality of America’s officer corps has been greatly enhanced during his 16 years of service as Ball State’s president.

Major General Wallace noted on the certificate President Worthen’s outstanding contributions to the Department of the Army and the Military Science Department at Ball State University. He noted "President Worthen has continuously demonstrated superior professionalism and determination in executing his duties. His dedication, coupled with his enthusiasm, has resulted in the tremendous success of Ball State’s ROTC program.

President Worthen’s outstanding performance and commitment reflect great credit on the university, ROTC and the U. S. Army Cadet Command.

The Ball State University Army ROTC program helps deserving Ball State students earn both their Army officer commissions and their university degrees. Many students attend Ball State on generous Army ROTC scholarships. Officers commissioned through the Ball State University ROTC program are currently serving throughout the nation, in Europe and Korea. Many officers have returned to Indiana to take up positions in their home communities, while continuing to serve in Army National Guard or Army Reserve.

The recently renovated Ball Gymnasium serves as headquarters for the ROTC program. The ROTC facilities include an extensive electronic classroom, cadet leadership laboratory and areas for physical training.