Alumni Awards | Ripon College

A group of friends at the Alumni Weekend Awards Ceremony

Award Winners

These awards were presented at the 1851 Awards Dinner on Friday, June 26, 2026.

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI CITATION

The Distinguished Alumni Citation recognizes those alumni who, in thought and deed, embody the highest ideals and aspirations of a Ripon College education. Candidates may be selected on any one of the following criteria: distinction in his/her chosen field or profession (distinctive achievement); rendering outstanding service to his/her country, state or community (outstanding service); or rendering outstanding service to, and demonstrating a loyal and active interest, in Ripon College (meritorious service). Nominations may be made by members of the faculty, administration, individual alumni, and groups or alumni clubs through the Office of Constituent Engagement for presentation to the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Thomas Bellfort ’67

Career Achievements

Merline Thoma Lovelace ’68

Career Achievements

Maryann Mason Norton ’86

Community Impacts

David S. Schwarz ’65

Community Impacts

Frank L. Smoll ’63

Career Achievements

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

The Ripon College Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 1979 by the Alumni Association Board of Directors to recognize alumni and coaches who have distinguished themselves through their participation in Ripon College athletic programs. The selection is determined by the Alumni Association Board of Directors upon recommendations from the Hall of Fame selection committee. This committee includes current and past members of the coaching staff, the alumni director and at least one alumnus. Athletic Hall of Fame membership is based on outstanding accomplishments while participating in an athletic program at Ripon College. Nominations may be made by members of the faculty, administration, individual alumni, and groups or alumni clubs through the Office of Constituent Engagement for presentation to the Alumni Association Board of Directors.