2009 Alumni Awards
Past Alumni Award Winners: 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998
Several awards and honors were presented during AU Homecoming and GWC Reunion festivities held in October. Honorees included:
Alfred J. Montalbano Jr.
GWC B.S. ’66
Distinguished Alumnus Award
Alfred J. Montalbano Jr., a 1966 graduate of George Williams College, has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to education through a rich career in teaching and school administration. Along the way, he has been a business owner and salesperson and earned several advanced degrees and certifications. In his retirement, he has overseen a small business with his wife, Patricia. It is in large part because of his dedication to lifelong learning and successful efforts to improve education that we honor Al.
Patricia L. (DeGries) Montalbano
AU B.S. ’71
Distinguished Alumna Award
A 1971 Aurora College alumna, Patricia L. Montalbano has worked for more than 10 school systems, where she has held various teaching and administration positions. Among a long list of professional accomplishments, she has directed the development, implementation and evaluation of curriculum on many levels. Her impressive career includes a devotion to the pursuit of knowledge as she has earned several advanced degrees and certifications. It is a pleasure to recognize Pattie for her commitment to education and professional development.
Dr. Grace S. Jones
GWC M.S. ’65
George Williams College Distinguished Alumna Award
Throughout her distinguished career in higher education, Grace Jones, President of Three Rivers Community College in Norwich, Connecticut, has dedicated herself to the improvement of society through education. From helping to plan a new school to designing and revising curriculum, Grace learned in experiential ways. A 1965 George Williams College graduate, her positions as Assistant Superintendent, Vice President for Multicultural Affairs and College President are shining examples of leadership and vision. Grace is also an active participant in the community, including her involvement in the Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, and community theatre.
William T. Cumler
GWC B.S. ’51
George Williams College Distinguished Alumnus Award
William Cumler grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where his father, a 1924 George Williams College graduate, was a 40-year YMCA professional. Following in his father’s footsteps, William graduated from GWC in 1951 and has been actively involved with the YMCA his entire life. Upon graduation, he continued at GWC for graduate study in group work administration while working full time in two different branches of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. He then began work at the YMCA of Central Stark County in Ohio, where he stayed for 34 years. In 1971, he was named the CEO of the six branches of the YMCA of Central Stark County until he retired in 1990. Since that time, William has continued to be involved in the Canton Y and the community.
