FHSU University Communications
No matter the challenges he faces during his deployment to Kuwait, Dr. Jonathan Sumrall, assistant professor of geosciences at Fort Hays State University, knows he can rely on the steady support of his department chair, Dr. Richard Lisichenko.
That steadfast support recently earned Lisichenko national recognition. Sumrall nominated his chair for the Patriot Award, presented by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program that honors supervisors who go above and beyond in supporting employees serving in the National Guard or Reserve.
In his nomination, Sumrall commended Lisichenko for maintaining consistent communication with both him and his family, ensuring they remain connected to the FHSU community during his deployment. Lisichenko regularly checks in with Sumrall and includes his family in departmental updates and events.
“Jon, thank you,” Lisichenko said upon receiving the award. “This is a big honor. You are the one, by the way, who we should focus on. Thank you for serving your country.”
Lisichenko, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran himself, said he deeply respects Sumrall’s dedication to serving his country.
Speaking via Zoom during the presentation, Sumrall expressed appreciation for his chair’s encouragement and reliability.
“It means a lot to me to know that I could walk away, and things would be taken care of by you,” Sumrall said. “I enjoy my job here, but I miss you all dearly.”
Sumrall also shared with his colleagues that while geology might be in short supply where he is stationed, the cultural experiences have been enriching.
The award was presented by Mike Isom, a representative of ESGR, who described the recognition as “one way for a soldier to say thank you to their employer for allowing them to serve their country.”