Celebrating Outstanding Volunteers

From serving as admissions representatives and internship hosts, to class correspondents, class fund chairs, and more, volunteers enhance many facets of the student and alumni experience at Lafayette. The Alumni Association recognized outstanding alumni, alumni groups, and students for their volunteerism and commitment to the College at the annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony this past fall.

Of the many highlights during the reception, President Nicole Farmer Hurd presented James R. Fisher ’77, P’07, ’10, ’11, trustee emeritus and chair of the Marquis Society, with the Joseph E. Bell ’28 Award for his distinguished service to the College.

“I will say, Jim, I have never seen a longer citation in my life,” said President Hurd. “So get ready because I’m going to read 10 pages about you. I find you to be compelling and loving, and full of so much greatness.”

David Albala ’78 was honored by the Gateway Career Center for his 25 years of providing early career experiences to students. Accompanied by Jodi Antonelli ’02 and Kevin Rice ’01, two former students who are now practicing physicians, as well as Sabrina Sicilia ’22, a current extern, Albala explained why supporting students through externships is important to the students and to him personally.

“I really love training and working with younger people. I’ve accomplished a lot in my life, but I get more satisfaction out of seeing younger people succeed,” said Albala. “Of all the things that I’ve done in my career, this is what I have enjoyed the most.”

For Mira van Roon Brand ’92, her award was especially meaningful. Brand received the Barry McCarty Alumni Admissions Representative of the Year Award from Admissions for her outstanding dedication to introducing prospective students to Lafayette. Brand was accompanied by Barry W. McCarty, former dean of enrollment for which the award is named, as well as her son Carter Brand, a member of the Lafayette Class of 2025.

“This award is very special to me because Barry McCarty facilitated my coming to Lafayette many years ago,” explained Brand. “I met my husband at Lafayette, and we both loved our time there. Now our oldest son attends Lafayette College, and he loves it too. Lafayette College is like family to us, and I want to tell everyone about the great school it is, especially in the Rocky Mountain region where I live now. Cur Non!”