Meller Honored for Contributions to Materials Handling Logistics

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Russell Meller, left, receives Apple-Reed Award from John Hill

Russell Meller, Hefley Professor of Logistics and Entrepreneurship in the industrial engineering department of the College of Engineering received the prestigious Apple-Reed Award from the Material Handling Education Foundation earlier this month. Meller, who is also director of the Center for Excellence in Logistics and Distribution, based at the University of Arkansas, was recognized for his contributions, dedication and service to the material handling logistics field and for his support of the Material Handling Education Foundation.

The Reed-Apple Award was established to honor material handling education pioneers Jim Apple, Sr., of Georgia Tech and Rudy Reed of Purdue. Meller is only the 19th person to receive the award since it was created 30 years ago. He was nominated by John White, former chancellor of the University of Arkansas, and himself a Reed-Apple Award recipient.

"In the 18 years since he received his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, Russ Meller has distinguished himself as an educator, counselor, writer with an unmatched number of publications, patent holder, consultant and innovator," said John Hill, a member of the governing board for the Material Handling Industry of America , who presented the award. "We look forward to his continuing contribution and guidance for many years to come."

Meller has also worked with the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education for 13 years, serving as both an officer and president of the organization.