Eastman School of Music
We are proud to present you with these exceptional award winners.
Dean’s Medal
Established in 2008, the Dean’s Medal recognizes extraordinary service, philanthropy, and leadership to the School, and dedication and commitment that inspire others to take leadership roles at the University. Individuals, families, associations, corporations, or foundations may be recognized. It is among the highest honors given by the School.
2017: George W. Hamlin, IV
2013: Dr. Ramon Ricker ’73E (DMA)y
2012: Paul R. Judy
2010: The Davenport-Hatch Foundation
2008: Betty Strasenburgh ’52
John N. Wilder1 Award
Established in 2008, the John N. Wilder Award honors an individual, family, association, corporation, or foundation whose philanthropy inspires others in support of an “Ever Better” University of Rochester. The award is named for John Wilder, first president (chairman) of the University’s Board of Trustees.
2012: Doris Johnson Hults ’41E, P’65
Eastman Distinguished Alumnus Award
Established in 1972 as the Alumni Achievement Award, the Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes alumni whose exceptional professional achievements, contributions to their chosen field, and service to the Eastman School of Music have brought honor to themselves and to the University of Rochester.
2022: Kevin Puts ’94E, ’99E (DMA)
2021: Kelly Hall-Tompkins ’93E
2020: Barbara Bernard Smith ’43E (MM)
2019:
Larry R. Combs ’61E
Erin Hannigan ’96E (MM)
Bob Ludwig ’66E, ’01E (MM)
Albert G. Regni ’58E
Julia Bullock ’09E
2018: Donald Hunsberger ’54E, ’59E (MS), ’63E (DMA)
2017: Gene Alex Scheer ’81E,’82E (MM)
2016: Mary Jo Heath ’88E (PhD)
2015:
Eric D. Ewazen ’76E
Paul J. Burgett ’68E, ’72E (MA), ’76E (PhD)
Jon E. Engberg ’54E, ’56E (MM), ’70E (DMA)
2014:
Allen C. Vizzutti ’74E, ’76E (MM)
Samuel H. Hope ’67E
2011: Jeff Beal ’85
2008: Jeff J. Tyzik ’73E, ’77E (MM)
Eastman Luminary Award
Established in 2006, the Eastman Luminary Award recognizes individuals who have given extraordinary service to music and the arts at the community and national levels, and whose dedication and achievements set an example for Eastman School of Music students and alumni. The design of the Luminary Award is taken from the round window at the top of the staircase in the Eastman School’s Lowry Hall, seen by generations of students since the School opened in 1921.
2023: Mark C. Volpe ’79E, ’14E (Hon)
2021: Dr. Garth Fagan ’86 (Hon)
2019:
Cathy E. Minehan ’68
The Verdehr Trio:
Dr. Elsa Verdehr ’58E (MM), ’64E (DMA)
Dr. Walter Verdehr
Silvia Roederer ’80E
David Renner ’60E, ’65E (MM)
Gary Kirkpatrick ’62E
2018: Jane Chu
2016: J. Todd Frazier
2015: Salvatore Signorelli
2014: Martin Messinger
2010: Sir Clive Gillinson
2007: Christopher Seaman ’09E (Hon)
2006: Louise M. Slaughter