The purpose of the Mason Prize is to honor, encourage, and empower people at Oregon State University whose work demonstrates academic virtues. These include:
The Mason Prize recognizes that professional pressures sometimes present moral dilemmas, asking us to take risks in defense of these ideals. Knowledge bestows not only power, but responsibilities.
The Mason Prize of $1000 will be awarded once each year, provided there are deserving candidates. Nominations are accepted each winter term, with the award to be made in the following spring term. Anyone may submit a nomination. University faculty, staff, students, and groups are all eligible for the prize. The award is administered by the Spring Creek Project for Ideas, Nature, and the Written Word.
The Mason Prize is established by gifts from Robert and Sue Mason, and their daughters, Laurie and Nancy. Robert Mason is emeritus professor of statistics at Oregon State University.
