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They have succeeded in business, advocated for women’s rights around the world, pioneered experiential teaching models and overcome personal struggles to fulfill the American dream. Seven honorees – alumni, retired faculty and one community member – will be recognized for the pride and honor they have brought to the University through their accomplishments at the Francis Cabot Lowell Alumni Awards and Honors Fellows Gala.

Proceeds from the event, which will take place on Thursday, Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center, will benefit students in the Honors Program.

“We are thrilled to honor such an outstanding group of people who have made such a difference at the University, in the community and for students,” says Vice Chancellor of University Advancement Beth Shorr. “They truly show what can be realized through the power of possibility.”

Honorees are:

• Lawrence J. Ardito ’69, president of Toscano & Ardito PC: Francis Cabot Lowell Award for Outstanding Achievement in Business;
• Claire Chamberlain, retired physical education, physical therapy and exercise physiology faculty member: Francis Cabot Lowell Faculty Award;
• Swanee Hunt, Eleanor Roosevelt Lecturer in Public Policy at the Kennedy School of Government, president, Hunt Alternatives Fund, former U.S. ambassador to Austria: Community Honors Fellow;
• Mary Kramer, retired English professor and strong supporter of the UMass Lowell honors program: Honors Fellow, College of Arts and Sciences;
• Ehud David Laska ’75, president & CEO of Pelion Financial Group: Francis Cabot Lowell Award for Outstanding Achievement in Business;
• Peter O’Connell, retired director of the Tsongas Industrial History Center: Honors Fellow, Graduate School of Education;
• Diana Tran ’02, founder and owner of Diana’s Hair Fashion and Design: Francis Cabot Lowell Young Alumni Award.

The Francis Cabot Lowell Award, given to alumni, faculty and staff, honors the values and accomplishments of the city of Lowell’s namesake. Honors Fellows represent the legacy of educational excellence that inspires the UMass Lowell Honors Program. The Community Honors Fellow is the only fellow selected outside of UMass Lowell, a tradition that began in 2008 in recognition of the synergistic connection between the University and the community.

Tickets to the gala cost $75 per person and include a light dinner and the award ceremony. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.uml.edu/advancement/fclhonors.

- Kristen_OReilly