MUNCIE, Ind. -- A Ball State University entomologist is the 1998 recipient of the Human Health Achievement Award for Preventive Medicine and Public Health.

Robert Pinger, director of Ball State’s Public Health Entomology Laboratory and a professor of physiology and health science, was honored at the 14th annual Tony and Mary Hulman Health Achievement Awards program in Indianapolis. The Hulman Awards recognize Hoosiers whose efforts have resulted in significant improvement to human life.

Pinger received the award for his research and testing programs in the state for the identification of disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks.

Dale Hahn, chair of the physiology and health science department, accepted the award for Pinger, who is teaching this year at Ball State’s London Centre.

"One of Dr. Pinger’s greatest strengths is that he doesn’t limit his professional efforts to the laboratory," Hahn said. "He carries the results of his professional activities beyond the laboratory or field to the public. In the case of Lyme disease, Dr. Pinger has produced valuable educational posters and pamplets, distributing them throughout the state to professionals and the general public. And, he has trained dozens of Ball State students in public health entomology."