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

Bringing Korean Stories to Life

Composer Julia Riew writes the musicals she needed to see.

Being Undocumented in America

Karla Cornejo Villavicencio’s writing aims to challenge assumptions. 

Most popular

How MAGA Went Mainstream at Harvard

Trump, TikTok, and the pandemic are reshaping Gen Z politics.

Harvard art historian Jennifer Roberts teaches the value of immersive attention

Teaching students the value of deceleration and immersive attention

Shakespeare’s Greatest Rival

Without Christopher Marlowe, there might not have been a Bard.

Explore More From Current Issue

David McCord in suit reading a book at cluttered wooden desk in office filled with framed art and shelves.

The Pump Celebrates Its 85th Birthday

Giving Harvard traditions their due 

James Muller in white lab coat leaning on railing in hospital hallway.

Free Speech, the Bomb—and Donald Trump

A Harvard cardiologist on the unlikely alliances that shaped a global movement to prevent nuclear war

Illustration of scientists injecting large syringe with mitochondria into human heart.

Do Mitochondria Hold the Power to Heal?

From Alzheimer’s to cancer, this tiny organelle might expand treatment options.