Stephen Houston, a professor of anthropology, received the Order of the Quetzal in the rank of Grand Cross from the president of Guatemala in July in recognition of his extensive work on the Maya civilization. The award is the most prestigious the Guatemalan government can grant.
"I've spent close to three decades studying the archaeology of Guatemala — I suspect that's not a record matched by many other colleagues," Houston said. His fieldwork involved two long-term excavations in the country, and he said his published works seemed to have resonated with those who choose the recipients of the Order of the Quetzal.
The rank of Grand Cross is most often awarded to prominent Guatemalan diplomats and heads of state.
Houston, who called the award an "overwhelming honor," said his work deciphering Maya writing has helped increase the understanding of the culture and the history of the Americas.
He added that the award reflected not just his work, but the work of many current and former Maya scholars.
"The whole department is very proud of him and the work that he has done for many, many years," said Catherine Lutz, professor of anthropology and chair of the department.
Houston is currently on sabbatical leave but will return to campus next fall.
