University of Houston - The Ester Farfel Award

The study of German has captivated Gertrud Bauer Pickar throughout her professional life. Professor Pickar received her undergraduate degree from Allegheny College. After a year in Vienna as a Fulbright Scholar, she took a master’s degree in German from the University of California at Los Angeles. In 1964, she received her doctorate, also in German, from Rice University.

Professor Pickar accepted a permanent position at the University of Houston in 1966, embarking on a career at the university that would span 30 years. Along the way, she garnered the Allegheny College Distinguished Alumni Gold Citation in 1983, as well as the UH Teaching Excellence Award in 1985. She served as department chair for 11 years, while still finding the time to publish seven books and over 50 scholarly articles. Professor Pickar retired from the University of Houston in 1996, and now lives in rural splendor in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas.

Professor Pickar’s service to the University of Houston was exemplary. She served on both the Faculty Senate and the University Council, in addition to several search committees and advisory boards throughout her years here. Of the Farfel Award, which she received in 1981, Professor Pickar says, “It’s the most significant award I’ve ever received.

There are teaching awards, and there are research awards—and each category is valuable—but the Farfel Award is special precisely because it recognizes teaching and research combined with service to the university. We are all deeply indebted to Aaron and Esther Farfel for their generosity in devising a way to recognize the faculty’s dedication to the University of Houston.”

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