Five Kean University alumni, including Dr. M. Ann Walko of Scotch Plains, were honored on Sunday, April 23, at the Alumni Association’s annual Distinguished Alumni Award event held at the North Avenue Academic Building.
The recipients of the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award share a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to their communities. Dr. M. Ann Walko ’60 ’64 M.A. of Scotch Plains received a Kean bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational leadership at Kean and prides herself on being a lifelong learner. Walko has called Kean her second home for more than 50 years as a faculty member in the College of Education.
“I am always amazed by the caliber of our distinguished alumni each year, and this year was no exception,” said Kean University President Dawood Farahi, Ph.D. “They are leaders in business and their communities, each serving as shining examples of the quality education that is offered at Kean.”
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes Kean alumni who have made significant contributions to society, and whose accomplishments, affiliations and careers have honored the legacy of excellence at the University. Recipients are accomplished in three distinct areas: professional achievement and career distinction; service to society; and service and support to Kean University. These areas reflect Kean’s core value: excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect, and selfless services.
To see more details about this year’s recipients as well as past recipients, please visit www.keanalumni.org.
(above) Dr. M. Ann Walko was presented with her Distinguished Alumni award from Edward Esposito, Kean University Alumni Board President.
Kean University awarded Distinguished Alumni Awards to five individuals who have made
significant contributions to society, their professions at their alma mater.
(above l-r) Standing: Geraldine Ponto, Alumni Association President Edward Esposito ’69 ’72
MA, George Gilcrest, M. Ann Walko, Scott Schober; Bottom: Kean University President Dr.
Dawood Farahi and Caroline Jolly.
Photo credit: Patti Banks/Kean University.
