Sociology professor, Bucher, named volunteer of the year

Jacob Bucher, associate sociology professor and chair of the Department of Criminal Justice for Baker University’s School of Professional and Graduate Studies, has been selected as the Topeka (Kan.) Correctional Facility Volunteer of the Year for his role in the Inside-Out Exchange Program.

Since 2009 Bucher has traveled weekly with 15 Baker students to lead a class with incarcerated individuals at the facility. The students and inmates participate in reading assignments, write papers and class discussions.

“We are very proud of Dr. Bucher and his contributions to the Topeka Correctional Facility,” said Colene Fischli, the deputy warden at TCF.

Bucher, a 2002 Baker graduate, and other statewide recipients will be honored at a reception in May. No date has been set.

In 2010, Baker honored Bucher with the Jennie Howell Kopke and Verda R. Kopke Award for Distinguished Teaching.

Baldwin City, Kan.