Richland teacher Tanner Huffman has been recognized by the California University of Pennsylvania Technology Education faculty as the recipient of the 2008 Cole McMahon Recent Graduate Award.

The award recognizes university graduates who have shown significant accomplishments in the field of technology education within the first five years of their graduation.

Huffman joined Richland's technology education faculty prior to the beginning of the 2007-08 school year, when he helped develop and implement the district's new technology curriculum, considered a model program.

He is the Technology Education Association of Pennsylvania Region 3C vice president. The group recently held one of its largest meetings in history, drawing an estimated 100 attendees.

Huffman served as co-adviser for the schools Technology Student Association program, an extra-curricular organization that involves students in science and technology projects and competitions.

Richland's TSA students earned an invitation to the National TSA conference in Orlando last July, when 14 of the district's 16 attending students placed in the top 10 in national events.

"I'm very honored to be receiving award," Huffman said. "The award presents comfort in knowing that my efforts, aimed towards providing opportunities for our students, are looked upon by leaders in my field as progressive and well-minded. I hope to continue and expand my initiatives for the students and community of Richland School District."

Huffman, who thanked his colleagues, school board and administrators for their support, will receive the award at a reception in Harrisburg Nov. 6.