Stanford Associates' Awards
The Stanford Associates present awards to recognize excellence in volunteer service to the University. Individuals who have demonstrated excellence in volunteer service are nominated by Stanford staff members in the fall of each year. The Stanford Associates' Board of Governors reviews the nominations and selects award winners. The following awards are given:
Gold Spike Award
"For exceptional volunteer leadership service."
MARIANN BYERWALTER, '82, has made a profound impact on Stanford over the past 30 years. From the Alumni Association to the Development Office to the Board of Trustees, Mariann brings astute financial judgment and a deep understanding of the university to every leadership role. Mariann's passion for health care, commitment to Stanford, and her extraordinary vision have been vital to the success of the new Stanford Hospital project. Her service to the university is deep, broad, and enduring, and the Stanford community is the better for it.
JOHN P. LEVIN, MA '70, JD '73, has greatly influenced the culture of service at the university with his own example of volunteer leadership. John's exemplary commitment to Stanford has touched many corners of the university including the Stanford Law School, the Graduate School of Education, the Board of Trustees, the Haas Center for Public Service, and the Stanford Hospitals. Through his abilities to think big, and raise the bar for himself and others, John continues to advance Stanford's mission like few others can.
The Stanford Medal
"For decades of distinguished and significant volunteer service to Stanford University."
IVAN FONG, JD '87, has left an indelible mark on Stanford Law School programs and alumni communities, and his volunteer activities continue to benefit Stanford at large. He served on the Board of Trustees and also served on the Law School Board of Visitors, where he provided guidance to three law school deans. Active as a leader for reunions as well as regional activities in Washington D.C. and Minneapolis, Ivan always makes Stanford a priority and generously shares his time and talents.
ELWOOD D. "WOODY" HOWSE, '61, MBA '70, is a devoted leader for the Graduate School of Business (GSB), having served on the school's Alumni Association Board of Directors and the Advisory Council. A dual degree holder, Woody has also been active with Stanford undergraduate class reunions and the Stanford Associates Board of Governors. Known as an extraordinary Stanford community builder for the Pacific Northwest, Woody provides guidance and mentorship to alumni chapter volunteers around the world.
SUSAN COLEMAN OBERNDORF, '78, has been an active volunteer leader for Stanford for three decades, serving in key leadership roles for the Office of Development, the Parents' Advisory Board, and the Vice Provost's Task Force for Undergraduate Education. Susan is known for her passion for the undergraduate experience and her commitment to provide access to Stanford for all students regardless of their ability to pay. Susan's leadership and strategic advice regarding financial aid continues to be a major catalyst for this important effort.
Governors' Award
The Governors' Award (formerly the "Stanford Associates Award"), was established in 1980. A maximum of 15 awards are given annually to Stanford Associates members to honor exemplary volunteer service to the University over an extended period. These individuals are honored for their ongoing and uncommon gift of self, time and energy to the University. Governors Awards are presented to honorees at the Stanford Associates Award Ceremony held on campus each spring.
Award of Merit
Established in 1975, the Award of Merit (formerly the "Outstanding Achievement Award"), is given for exceptional volunteer service during a given period, usually one year. Bestowed for a single specific achievement, up to 25 awards are given annually to individuals or groups for their demonstrated initiative, thoroughness and enthusiasm. Awards of Merit are presented to honorees at the Stanford Associates Award Ceremony held on campus each spring.
