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Special Events
Reflection Award Evening of Elegance
Stars for Scholars Aquinas College Peter M. Wege Pro Am
 
Reflection Award
Thursday, September 10, 2009
 
Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D., '71 The Aquinas College Reflection Award is given annually to an individual who reflects the values of Aquinas College: commitment, vision, service, loyalty and integrity.

The 2009 Reflection Award will be presented to Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D., '71, (picured at left) former president of Grand Rapids Community College, on September 10. Presently serving as the president and CEO of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, Dr. Olivarez was chosen for this year's
honor because of his work in literacy and education and his longstanding commitment to community development. A leader in the West Michigan community, Dr. Olivarez is a 2003 recipient of the David McMahon Award for excellence in working for human rights, was appointed to the National Institute for Literacy board by President George W. Bush and has served on numerous national, state and local boards. >>More Information
 
For information on attending the next Reflection Award or on becoming an event sponsor, please contact the Special Events Office at (616) 632-2805.
 
>>Reflection 2008 Photo Gallery
 
Past Reflection Award Recipients:
2008 - Charles and Stella Royce
2007 - No award was given.
2006 - Mr. Robert R. Israels
2005 - Mr. Jim McKay '82 & Mrs. Mary Caroline (Twink) Frey
2004 - Ms. Kate P. Wolters '78
2003 - Mr. Martin J. Allen, Jr
2002 - Mr. Peter C. & Ms. Emajean (Pat) Cook
2001 - Dr. Luis A. Tomatis
2000 - Mr. John Jackoboice
1999 - Mrs. Sally Gleason
1998 - Mr. Peter M. Wege
1997 - Mr. Clare Jarecki
1996 - Mr. John C. Canepa
1995 - Mr. Raymond E. Knape
1994 - Mr. John W. Cummiskey
1993 - Sr. Mary Aquinas Weber, O.P. '58
 
Evening of Elegance 2009
Evening of Elegance 2009 had attendees steering their way from Monaco to the Champs-Elysees with a nod at the Tour de France, a favorite sporting event of host and hostess John and Nancy Kennedy. Although no lengthy becycle rides were required, guests experienced joie de vivre while tasting regional delicacies inspired by towns along the Tour de France route.
 
The event, graciously hosted by John and Nancy Kennedy, took place on Wednesday April 29, 2009. Nestled in the natural elegance of the Grand Rapids forest, the Kennedy's stately retreat complemented the fine wine and haute cuisine prepared by Food Smith's chef, Andrew Smith. Andrew and Karin '01 Smith have been the exclusive caterers for Evening of Elegance since its inception.
 
>>Evening of Elegance 2009 Photo Gallery
 
For information on attending the next Evening of Elegance or on becoming an event sponsor, please contact our Special Events Office at (616) 632-2805.
 
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Evening of Elegance Reflection Award