Each year during Reunion Weekend, the Alumni Association Board of Directors presents awards to selected alumni, typically those in their reunion years.
The Distinguished Achievement Citation is the Alumni Association’s highest honor and is awarded to alumni who demonstrate professional accomplishment and outstanding service to humankind. Presented this year to: Doug Gordin ’78 for his achievements and recognitions as a collegiate golf coach and leader in the sport; Robert E. Lee ’39 posthumously for his prizewinning theater writing; Arthur J. “Art” Keown ’69 for his outstanding commitment to educating the next generation of finance professionals; Jim Michaels ’79 for serving the nation as both a U.S. Marine infantry officer and as a war correspondent for several major U.S. newspapers; and Donald Shaw, Jr. ’69 for his humanitarian efforts and commitment to serve Hartford and Connecticut.
The Alumni Award recognizes those who demonstrate outstanding service to OWU. Presented this year to: Bob Morrill ’59, who donated the lead gift for the renovation of the Morrill Family 2019 alumni award winners Strength and Conditioning Room, for serving as a constant champion and strong supporter of his alma mater; David Livingston ’94, former member of the Board of Trustees, for his outstanding service and dedication to his alma mater; Life Trustee Carleton Palmer III ’64 for his outstanding service and dedication to his alma mater; committed OWU volunteer Grant Kurtz ’64 for his dedicated advocacy and enthusiasm for his alma mater.
The Young Alumni Award honors alumni who graduated in the past 15 years in recognition of a commitment to excellence in post-collegiate life and a significant or ongoing commitment to extraordinary work, research, volunteerism, or service to OWU. Presented this year to Ali A. Chaudhry ’04 for his guidance and policy oversight for infrastructure and transportation across the state of New York.
Honorary Alumni status is conferred upon persons who have exhibited consistent interest in and support of OWU for a significant period of time, presented this year to Jeff Benton for his deep commitment and love for both the Delaware community and OWU.