Five distinguished graduates of the University of Kentucky (UK) College of Agriculture were inducted Dec. 14 into the inaugural class of the Hall of Distinguished Alumni. Fifteen posthumous recipients will also be named.

This year’s inductees are Louis J. Boyd, Maurice Cook, David Switzer, Harold Workman, and Joe Wright. These honorees have had outstanding careers and continue to serve as important members of their fields and in their communities.

For nearly 150 years, alumni from College of Agriculture have contributed substantially to their chosen fields, their communities, and society. To pay homage to these and future distinguished graduates, the college initiated the Hall of Distinguished Alumni. This award is the highest honor the college will bestow. The college’s alumni association spearheaded the formation of this award.

"The Ag and HES Alumni Association is excited to support the establishment of the College of Agriculture Hall of Distinguished Alumni," said Bill McCloskey, alumni association president. "It is important to recognize and celebrate our alumni that exemplified themselves by making significant contributions to their communities and profession while at the same time proudly representing the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture