2009 Abraham Award

l-r: Nancy Mitchell, Oscar Waggoner, Dona LaFran

Nancy Mitchell, associate director of alumni relations
She has brought “quiet grace, nerves of steel, a spontaneous smile and an outstanding work ethic to a highly demanding position” in her 24 years of service to the college, colleagues said in nominating Mitchell. “Her positive interactions with alumni are evidence of her strength.”

Oscar Waggoner, painter
A member of the staff for 25 years, “he is extremely efficient in his work, always cheerful and positive with whomever he interacts, be they faculty, staff or colleagues from the physical plant, and can always be counted on to do his job well,” a staff member said.

Dona LaFran, administrative assistant, Penrose Library
In her 10 years at Whitman, she has been “caring, meticulous, and always ready to help,” colleagues said. Great at training student employees, she “naturally creates an environment where students feel comfortable and nurtured.”