Byron Brown has been in the Honors College for decades.

A current economics professor, he's been an undergraduate adviser in economics for the Honors College and has sat on committees that have decided nominees for different academic awards.

For all he's given, he's received some, too.

Brown is a recipient of the 2004 Honors College Award for Distinguished Contributions to Honors Students, an annual award given based on nominations from current and former students. Assistant psychology Professor Kelly Klump also received the honor.

Upon receiving the honor, Brown said he was "overjoyed."

"I always thought the Honors College was one of the most important things we do here at MSU," he said.

Receiving the honor is very rewarding, Brown said.

"I was touched," Brown said. "I know one of the nominations came from a former student of mine ? it's always gratifying when your students remember what you've done."

Klump said she was surprised and honored when she found out she had won.

"In some ways, it's the best honor I've ever had," she said. "I've received awards from professional organizations, from senior colleagues in the field, but this one means the most because it came from students who worked with me."

A clinical psychologist, Klump teaches one undergraduate course along with two graduate courses. Her work with honors students comes through one-on-one mentoring, after the students seek her out for help with their research.

"Although I enjoy my work with patients, I enjoy my work with students more," Klump said. "I think that I have been blessed by having very hard-working students."