Union College News Release 9-29-08: Union College Announces Alumni Award Winners

Union College Announces Alumni Award Winners

Four Union College alumni and two athletic teams have been selected for the annual Hall of Fame and alumni awards. The awards will be presented during the Homecoming Banquet and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, October 18 at 6:00 pm in Robsion Arena.

Alumni who are selected for the Hall of Fame have made outstanding contributions to their fields, been pioneers in their areas of expertise, and provided leadership at state, regional or national levels. This year’s inductees are George K. Allison, Ambrose “Andy” Dudley and Alvis Wooton.

George K. Allison, a 1966 graduate, will be inducted into the Educators’ Hall of Fame. Allison is currently headmaster of The Knox School in St. James, N.Y. He has more than 40 years of experience in independent school education.

Ambrose “Andy” Dudley, a 1958 graduate, will be inducted into the Business and Professional Hall of Fame. Prior to his retirement in 1998, Dudley enjoyed a distinguished, 36-year career in banking. He lives in Winchester, Ky.

Alvis Wooton graduated from Union with a bachelor’s degree in 1962 and a master’s degree in 1964. He will be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Wooton was an outstanding basketball player at Union and went on to enjoy a successful career as a semi-professional player, teacher, coach and athletic director. He lives in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Gina Beth Liford-Rotkvich, a dentist who lives in Chicago, Ill., graduated from Union in 2001. She will be presented with the Rising Star Award, given to recent graduates who have excelled in their chosen fields and are recognized leaders who serve their communities and alma mater.

For the first time, Union will also recognize “teams of distinction.” The special recognition will go to Union athletic teams whose success helped distinguish the program and the college. The first to receive the honor are the 1934 football team, which was the first and only football team in Union’s history to have an undefeated season, and the 1968 basketball team, which became the first to qualify for and participate in an NAIA national championship.

To purchase banquet tickets or to nominate a candidate for the 2009 awards, contact Melissa Newman at 606-546-1226 or alumni@unionky.edu. Nominations must be submitted by May 1, 2009.