A farmer in his 70s who sent an N95 mask to New York to give to a nurse or doctor was awarded a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University on Tuesday.
Dennis Ruhnke, Troy, Kansas, gained national headlines when he sent a mask and a letter to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Gov. Laura Kelly and Kansas State University President Richard Myers awarded a bachelor’s degree to Ruhnke on Tuesday.
Ruhnke wrote to Gov. Cuomo: “I am a retired farmer hunkered down in Northeast Kansas with my wife who has but one lung and occasional problems with her remaining lung. She also has diabetes. We are in our 70s now and frankly, I am afraid for her.
“Enclosed find a solitary N-95 mask left over from my farming days. It has never been used. If you could, would you please give this mask to a nurse or doctor in your city. I have kept four masks for my immediate family. Please keep on doing what you do so well, which is to lead.”
“Dennis’ donation, at the height of our country’s protective gear shortage, showed us the best in humanity when we needed it the most,” Governor Kelly said. “I would like to thank Dennis for the example he’s set on how to serve – and how to be thoughtful and generous in an extraordinary way.”
In 1971, Ruhnke was studying agriculture at Kansas State University when his father died. At that time, he was two credits away from earning his degree, but chose to leave school to take care of his mother and the family farm.
“After speaking with President Myers, we both agreed that Dennis perfectly encapsulates K-State’s democratic mandate to be of service to people,” Gov. Kelly said. “Which is why I am very honored that I was able to help present Dennis with his well-deserved bachelor’s degree in agriculture.”
“Along with his fantastic demonstration of kindness and generosity, Mr. Ruhnke’s academic work at K-State in his chosen field of agriculture qualifies him to receive his degree,” President Richard Myers said. “Kansas State University is proud to officially recognize Mr. Ruhnke as an alumus and valued member of the Wildcat family.”