RUPERT, IDAHO, February 01, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, is proud to present Richard Hansen with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award. An accomplished listee, Richard Hansen celebrates many years' experience in his professional network and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes he has accrued in his field. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Backed by a Bachelor of Science in general studies and Master of Science in anthropology from Brigham Young University, as well as a PhD in archaeology from the University of California Los Angeles, Dr. Hansen has been exploring the remote region of Guatemala known as the Mirador-Calakmul Karst Basin for over 40 years. As director of the Mirador Basin Project, he has researched 1.6 million acres of pristine jungle using light detection and ranging technology. Since the late-1970s, Dr. Hansen has helped uncover 964 settlements, forming nearly 420 ancient cities, towns, and villages. His discoveries have raised new scientific questions regarding these complex societies' origins, dynamics, and eventual collapse. His specialty is understanding these aspects, particularly regarding a significant but lesser-known collapse around 150 AD. While the Mayan collapse 750 years earlier is widely recognized, this abandonment of cities offers new insights into ancient societal dynamics.

In addition to his research, Dr. Hansen is the director of Mirador Basin Research and Conservation Programs for the Global Heritage Fund and the president and founder of the Foundation for Anthropological Research and Environmental Studies. Drawing on his extensive knowledge, he also serves as an affiliate research professor of anthropology for Idaho State University. During the early stages of his career, Dr. Hansen taught at the University of Utah and the University of California, Los Angeles.

Mr. Hansen's contributions extend beyond his professional endeavors. As a local Cub Scout chapter committee member, he has made a positive impact on his community. His considerable professional experience has also led to his consultation for nearly 40 documentaries worldwide and the films "Apocalypto" and "The Story of God." These personal achievements and contributions further demonstrate his character and dedication.

Given his outstanding achievements, Dr. Hansen has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the Order of the Quetzal, the highest honor in Guatemala. While his career has been filled with highlights, he takes the most pride in bringing global attention to the Mirador-Calakmul Karst Basin. When he began researching the area, the primary view was that the Mayans were primarily hunters and gatherers. However, his research has disproven this, revealing a much more sophisticated society that built some of the world's largest pyramids. He is also proud of the educational impact of his work, his seven children, most of whom are now doctors, and his media contributions.

Though hard work and dedication have brought him far in his career, Dr. Hansen credits his success to his wife's tireless support, managing seven children while living in the jungle. He also notes that he would not be where he is today without maintaining his passion for his work. Looking toward the future, Dr. Hansen intends to establish the wilderness area as a significant conservation and cultural site. Likewise, he would like to find someone to carry on his work so that he can fully retire.

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