The Maryland Alumni Association has newly inducted into its Hall of Fame seven outstanding Terps who have educated, entertained and served their communities. The awards, celebrated once every five years since 1995, honor alumni inventors, entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, political and business leaders and athletes.
“All have led extraordinary lives,” association Executive Director Amy Eichhorst said at the June ceremony, “and their accomplishments have created waves of inspiration that continue to ripple through our lives today.”
Joseph Gildenhorn ’51, a retired businessman, ambassador to Switzerland and UMD foundation trustee, noted that he owes a great deal to the university, where he met a business law professor who guided his career—and his bride.
“I know that our university will continue to grow and strengthen, and I look forwarded to playing a role in its ongoing advancement and success,” he said.
2015 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
Retired Lt. Gen. Julius Becton Jr. M.A. ’67
A decorated veteran who later ran the Federal Emergency Management Agency
Joseph ’51 and Alma Gross Gildenhorn ’53
A husband-and-wife team of D.C. civic and philanthropic leaders and arts patrons
Michael D. Griffin Ph.D. ’77
An aerospace engineer and leading figure in space exploration through his work in government, industry and academia
Clifford Kendall ’54
A business owner and expert on the D.C. region’s economic development with a deep well of charitable efforts
Catherine P. Mackin ’60 (deceased)
A journalist who became the first woman to regularly solo-anchor an evening TV news broadcast
William E. Mayer ’66, MBA ’67
An investment banker who led the Aspen Institute and what’s now the Robert H. Smith School of Business (1992-96)
