Dennis Gardisser, professor and associate head of the Biological and Engineering Department for the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, was honored for his contributions to aviation at a recent meeting of aviation enthusiasts.

The Federal Aviation Association presented plaques to Gardisser, honoring him as Certified Flight Instructor of the Year and as FAAST (FAA Safety Team) Representative of the Year. It's the first time anyone in the FAA Southwest District has won both awards in the same year.

In addition, the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics presented two certificates to Gardisser in recognition of the accomplishments, signed by Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe and John Knight, director of the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics.

The presentations were made at a breakfast sponsored by Arkansas EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Chapter 122.