I’m pleased to report that Hunter Baker is the recipient of the 2011 Novak Award from the Acton Institute. Hunter is associate dean of arts and sciences and associate professor of political science at Union University in Jackson, Tenn., and author of The End of Secularism (Crossway Academic, 2009).

From the release:

With his writing and speaking in a variety of popular and academic contexts, Dr. Hunter Baker has made pelling prehensive case for the integration of the Christian faith into all areas of life, including economics and business.

…

Baker said the award was made all the more meaningful to him in light of the “power and diligence” that Michael Novak has shown over a long career. “Novak’s work helps readers understand the importance of the Christian faith as both a supernatural relationship with God that stirs the soul and as a powerful impetus for and sustainer of passion, creativity, and excellence in the broader culture,” he said.

About the award: “Named after distinguished American theologian and social philosopher Michael Novak, the Novak Award rewards new outstanding research by scholars early in their academic careers who demonstrate outstanding intellectual merit in advancing the understanding of theology’s connection to human dignity, the importance of limited government, religious liberty, and economic freedom.”

Hunter has been a good friend to the Acton Institute, and as the award recognizes, holds forth a promising future for a career (building off of his already significant achievements) articulating the foundations of a free and virtuous society.

He’s a contributor to the PowerBlog, and here’s a sampling of his work elsewhere:

Acton CommentaryRegaining a Sense of Taste in Political Leadership (August 4, 2010)Imagine You Are a Doctor (August 18, 2009)Healthcare, Democracy, and Freedom (August 4, 2009)The Tyranny of the Obvious (May 26, 2009)End Times for Christian America? (May 12, 2009)Charitable Choice and Secular Goods (February 25, 2009)Religion & LibertyCan Libertarians and Social Conservatives find Common Ground? (Spring 2008)Radio Free ActonConcealing Christian Identity (January 19, 2011)Journal of Markets & MoralityControversy with Jonathan Malesic (Fall 2010): “Is Some Form of Secularism the Best Foundation for Christian Engagement in Public Life?” (PDF)The Gheens LecturesThe System Has a Soul: Lectures on Christianity and Secularism (Fall 2010)