Robert (Bob) Abendroth ‘51

Robert (Bob) Abendroth ’51 will receive Ripon College’s 2026 Founders’ Day Award during the College’s 175th anniversary year in recognition of his extraordinary, lifelong service to the institution. One of the longest-serving members of Ripon’s Board of Trustees, Abendroth served for 31 years (1965–1996), including 19 years as chair, helping to strengthen the College financially and transform the campus through major new construction and restorations. His dedication also includes service as Alumni Association president, Alumni Trustee, volunteer, and generous benefactor, supporting scholarships and campus facilities that bear his family’s name. A recipient of Ripon’s Distinguished Alumni Citation and Medal of Merit, Abendroth enjoyed a distinguished legal career in antitrust law and was the first law clerk to future U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger. The award will be formally presented at Ripon’s 161st Commencement on May 17.