Alumni honored with Rhodes Awards
By Sheyna Horowitz '99
We spend only a few years as Cornell students but a lifetime as Cornell alumni. No matter how far from Ithaca we may stray and no matter how long ago we received our diplomas, we discover ways to stay connected with our alma mater. Attending reunions, submitting news for class columns, and wearing red and white to sporting events are some of the more common traditions. But a handful of truly dedicated individuals go above and beyond in demonstrating their Big Red spirit.
Each year the Cornell Alumni Federation selects up to six alumni who have exhibited extraordinary devotion to the University and to their fellow Cornellians. These honorees receive the Frank H. T. Rhodes Exemplary Alumni Service Award as recognition for their long-term service.
This award is named for the president who made a significant mark on campus during his eighteen-year tenure; he is well-known for inspiring Cornellians to give back long after they leave the Hill. The award winners demonstrate that spirit of volunteerism, and we thank them sincerely for their dedication and commitment. Here are the 2008 honorees.
The greatest thrill for Stephen Adelson '55 and Ellen Gussman Adelson '58 is recruiting prospective students. Every January they host a warm reception for more than 100 alumni, students, and applicants. This tradition is just one example of the many events Stephen and Ellen have planned for the Cornell Club of Oklahoma. As charter members, they initiated much enthusiasm among local alumni; people often travel for up to five hours to attend an activity they have sponsored. For the Adelsons, giving back makes life richer and helps close the distance between Ithaca and their home.
Henry Bartels '48 and Nancy Horton Bartels '48 have made long-term commitments to some of Cornell's premier alumni organizations, including the University Council and the Class of '48 Major Gifts Committee. Perhaps most unique is their involvement in the Shoals Marine Laboratory, and the Bartels routinely visit Maine to secure undergraduate research and programming opportunities. Henry and Nancy have an exceptional interest— and talent—in engaging Cornellians both locally and globally through their sponsorship of the World Affairs Fellowship, which enables prominent international figures to speak on campus.
Don Follett '52 and Mibs Martin Follett '51 have a special affection for Cornell—it's where they began more than fifty-five years of marriage. Each has a particular volunteer focus, with Don concentrating his efforts on the Cornell Society of Engineers, serving multiple terms as chair. Mibs has dedicated her time to the College of Human Ecology's Advancement Committee and to the Mann Library renovation project. Together the Folletts are exceptionally active with reunion planning and their classes' major gifts committees. They also enjoy Cornell Adult University activities and Friends of Astronomy events. Both feel strongly that giving back to Cornell is essential for ensuring the success of the University and for enabling future generations of students to experience a top-notch education.
Robert Metcalf, MBA '61, played a prominent role in developing the Cornell Alumni Federation into the organization it is today. As vice president of this umbrella group, he gave it a more clearly defined purpose and structure for effectively supporting Cornell leaders across the world. An active volunteer for multiple Johnson School fundraising initiatives, Bob also contributes to the Cornell Club of Greater Hartford and the Cornell Club of Greater Rochester. In fact, under his leadership the Rochester organization won the Outstanding Large Club Award in 1981. For Bob, instilling enthusiasm in others is the biggest challenge a Cornell leader faces—and he has a natural talent for doing just that.
Martha Ohaus '47 excels at planning large events. That's why she was tapped to run the College of Human Ecology's volunteer conference, gathering more than 800 attendees. Her past leadership roles also include chair of the Cornell Plantations' Twenty-First Century Committee and of the Advancement of Human Ecology Commission. Frequently moving around the country, Martha has maintained her volunteer habit as the best way to meet new friends and grow roots in unfamiliar locations. Plus, she finds it more intellectually stimulating than other hobbies. Martha's affection for Cornell is contagious; her late husband, three children, and (to date) one grandchild are also graduates.
The late Stephen Weiss '57, who died on April 16, had many notable achievements, including twenty-four years of service on the Board of Trustees. During his tenure, he gave considerable thought to the financial health of the University and established a structure for campus maintenance and upkeep—something many of us take for granted. Under his guidance, the Weill Cornell Medical College gained recognition and status in the medical community. Perhaps most impressive was Stephen's involvement in nominating four Cornell presidents. He said volunteering was the least he could do to demonstrate his gratitude for an experience that opened many doors and introduced him to lifelong friends.
Sheyna Horowitz is president of the Class of '99 and a Cornell Alumni Federation director at large.