Harvard Medalists 2012: Collier, Gordons, Parker, Wallach

Five honored for outstanding service to the University

Clockwise from top left: Susan S. Wallach, Charles W. Collier, Harry L. Parker, Ellen R. Gordon and Melvin J. Gordon

Five people received the Harvard Medal for outstanding service to the University and were publicly thanked by President Drew Faust during the Harvard Alumni Association’s annual meeting on the afternoon of Commencement Day.

Charles W. Collier, M.T.S. ’73. Fearless and faithful fundraiser, you have served Harvard through your deep knowledge of philanthropy, careful diplomacy, and hard work, giving alumni a wealth of planned opportunities to participate in the life of this University and leaving a legacy that has enriched us all.

Ellen R. Gordon, G ’69, and Melvin J. Gordon ’41, M.B.A. ’43. As proud parents and partners, you have worked together to advance the University’s mission in medicine, science, health, and athletics; through your outstanding generosity and loyal support, you have made Harvard’s family your own.

Harry L. Parker. Olympian oarsman and Crimson coach, better than the best at what you do, you have led the Harvard Men’s Crew to victory for more than half a century, instilling in your student athletes lessons of courage, determination, and strength that have led to success, not only on the water, but in their lives.

Susan S. Wallach ’68, J.D. ’71. As Radcliffe trustee, Harvard Overseer, and wise counselor to presidents and deans, you have helped stimulate new connections among Harvard’s myriad people and parts, with special care for the humanities and arts, for law and education, and for the steady advancement of women.

Related topics

You might also like

Novelist Lev Grossman on Why Fantasy Isn’t About Escapism

The Magicians author discusses his influences, from Harvard to King Arthur to Tolkien.

Yesterday’s News

A co-ed experiment that changed dorm life forever

This TikTok Artist Combines Monsters and Mental Heath

Ava Jinying Salzman’s artwork helps people process difficult feelings.

Most popular

FAS Announces New Endowment for Ph.D. Candidates

A $50 million gift from alumni donors aims to protect research opportunities amid political uncertainty

Harvard Students, Alumni to Compete at the 2026 Olympics

Six Crimson athletes are headed to the XXV Winter Games in Milano Cortina 

Teen "Grind" Culture and Mental Health

Teens need better strategies to cope with lives lived partly online.

Explore More From Current Issue

Black and white photo of a large mushroom cloud rising above the horizon.

Open Book: A New Nuclear Age

Harvard historian Serhii Plokhy’s latest book looks at the rising danger of a new arms race.

Historic church steeple framed by bare tree branches against a clear sky.

Harvard’s Financial Challenges Lead to Difficult Choices

The University faces the consequences of the Trump administration—and its own bureaucracy.

A bald man in a black shirt with two book covers beside him, one titled "The Magicians" and the other "The Bright Sword."

Novelist Lev Grossman on Why Fantasy Isn’t About Escapism

The Magicians author discusses his influences, from Harvard to King Arthur to Tolkien.