Nathan Smit, who began work for Hormel Foods Corp. in Austin  as an entry-level lab technician with an associate degree, decided to go back to school and graduated in 2008 from Kansas State University’s online food science bachelor’s degree program. He was recently honored by the National University Technology Network with its Learner Recognition Award because of his career achievements, both overcoming adversity during his time in school and for his success in the years since.

The award was presented as the network’s annual conference in October.

Smit was nominated by K-State Global Campus based on his  professional achievements since earning his degree. Since graduation, he has been promoted four times at Hormel Foods Corp., where he has worked since before going back to school, and continues to climb the corporate ladder.