President Mitch Daniels on Monday (April 9) surprised Larry Nies, professor of civil engineering and environmental and ecological engineering, with a One Brick Higher Award to thank him for his heroic work in helping save the life of a colleague earlier this year.

One Brick Higher is a special honor presented to Purdue faculty, staff and students who go beyond the requirements of their role and through extraordinary effort improve the lives of those around them, increase the effectiveness of the workplace or prevent or solve problems.

On Jan. 22, when Nies heard Chad Jafvert, his fellow professor of civil engineering and environmental and ecological engineering, calling for him from the office next door, Nies immediately asked another nearby colleague to call 911 and then stayed with Jafvert until EMTs arrived.

Paramedics arrived within minutes and took Jafvert to a hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery following a heart attack he suffered en route to the hospital.

“Professor Nies’ quick thinking and decisive actions very likely saved the life of his colleague. Even our highest recognition seems inadequate,” Daniels said.

President Mitch Daniels, Larry Nies and Chad Jafvert. (Purdue University photo/Rebecca Wilcox)

Source: Professor Larry Nies receives One Brick Higher Award for lifesaving response (Purdue News)