The Ohio University Alumni Association will honor alumni who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the university and have won the respect of their peers during this year’s Homecoming Alumni Awards Gala and Dessert Reception Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. in Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium.

Attendees will be able to mix and mingle with alumni and welcome awardees as they arrive at the gala.

“These honored alumni are not only successful in their careers but have also contributed valuable time and resources to assist Ohio University and its fine reputation,” says Ralph Amos, executive director of the Ohio University Alumni Association.

“Everyone who is able should attend the gala,” says Sharon Zimmerman, director of alumni affairs. “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the lives and accomplishments of outstanding Ohio alumni and friends.”

The evening begins with a hors d’oeurvres reception in the north lobby of the auditorium. Following the awards ceremonies, a dessert reception will be held. Dress is black tie; for students, business attire.

Award recipients, chosen by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, will be honored and presented with one of five awards given out annually: Alumnus of the Year, Medal of Merit, Distinguished Service Award, Charles J. and Claire O. Ping Recent Graduate Award and Honorary Alumni Award.

The Alumnus of the Year award is given to an alumnus who has previously received the Medal of Merit or Distinguished Service Award and has distinguished himself or herself professionally or shown considerable support to Ohio University. U.S. Sen. George Voinovich received this year’s award. 

The Medal of Merit is presented to alumni who have achieved distinction in their field, or have demonstrated loyalty to, and an active interest in Ohio University. This year’s Medals of Merits have been awarded to David Crane, Michael Crary, Nancy Haag and Peter King.

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals with exceptional service to Ohio University alumni chapters, clubs, constituent societies, the Alumni Association and, in special instances, the university’s colleges and schools. The Distinguished Service awardees are John Baughman and Barbara Strom-Thompson.

The Charles J. and Claire O. Ping Recent Graduate Award honors recent graduates who have maintained an active interest in Ohio University and whose achievements have demonstrated the impact of their college educations. The recent graduates awarded are J.D. Hupp and Kristine McCray-Wood.

The Honorary Alumni Award is presented to non-alumni who have rendered valuable service to Ohio University or the Alumni Association through careers or contact with students, faculty and staff. This year’s honorary alumnus is Col. Patrick F. Webb.

The cost of the evening is $25 per person. Please make reservations online at www.ohio.edu/homecoming/. A cash bar will be available. For additional information, please contact the Ohio University Alumni Association at (740) 593-4300 or email at alumni@ohio.edu.