Foundation Honors Three with Distinguished Service Awards

Summer 2009--The Fredonia College Foundation selected three honorees to receive Distinguished Service Awards (DSA) at a special black-tie dinner held May 9 in the Williams Center. This year’s honorees were Mrs. Gileen W. French, The Holmberg Foundation and the Quatroche Family. To be selected, the honorees must be citizens or organizations that make significant contributions to society through business, government, education or the arts.

“These recipients could not be more deserving,” President Dennis L. Hefner said of the honorees, the 17th group of individuals to be recognized by the foundation. “SUNY Fredonia is incredibly grateful for their dedication and service to the college and our greater community.”

Mrs. French was honored for her service as a member of the Fredonia College Foundation Board of Directors from 1996 until 2008, providing effective guidance and leadership. She also served as Chair of the Foundation’s Special Events Committee, illustrating the importance of excellence in stewardship and fundraising events. In addition, she was honored for her dedication to the teaching profession, including 33 years with the Grand Island Central School District.

The Holmberg Foundation was selected for its commitment of nearly 50 years to the citizens of Chautauqua County and as a leader in philanthropy at SUNY Fredonia through the Fredonia College Foundation. The Holmberg Foundation was also recognized for Arnold P. Holmberg’s commitment and conviction to establish the foundation following his 40-plus-year career in the telephone industry, and for supporting religious, educational and charitable endeavors. The Holmberg Foundation has also shown a special interest in medical and scientific research, leading to its support of undergraduate Summer Research Fellowships in biology on campus.

The Quatroche Family was recognized for its dedication to the mission of SUNY Fredonia, the Fredonia College Foundation, and to the community, through generous philanthropy and service. Special recognition was given to Diana Frost Quatroche, ’62, professor and chair of the Department of Elementary, Early, and Special Education in the College of Education at Indiana State University; J. Robert Quatroche, ’63, vice president for Advancement at Indiana State University emeritus, and former associate director of Admissions at SUNY Fredonia; and Thomas J. Quatroche, Sr., ’61, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs emeritus at Buffalo State College, and former assistant dean of students at SUNY Fredonia.