Smith Alumni Receive Top University Honors

Every five years, the University of Maryland Alumni Association honors and celebrates the achievements of 21 individuals who have made their mark on the university or within their respective industries. The 12th annual Awards Gala, a black-tie event held at the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center on April 14, recognized five Smith alumni for their professional achievements, personal accomplishments and exceptional service.

Robert G. Isaman ’85, former CEO of Stolle Machinery Company LLC, and vice chair of the Smith School Advisory Board, was honored with the Smith School’s Distinguished Alumnus Award for his contributions in the field of business.

Cliff ’54 and Camille Kendall, prominent University of Maryland philanthropists and volunteers, received the Spirit of Maryland Award for embodying the best of Maryland spirit through their philanthropy, generosity and volunteerism.

Ed Snider ’55, chairman of Comcast Spectacor, a Philadelphia-based sports and entertainment company that owns the Philadelphia Flyers, received the President’s Distinguished Alumnus Award for his national achievement in the fields of sports, business and entertainment as well as his philanthropic contributions to the Philadelphia community.

Leo Van Munching Jr. ’50, retired president of Van Munching & Company, was honored with the Tyser Gottwals Award (named for Abram Z. Gottwals and Ralph J. Tyser) for his significant philanthropy and service as one of the university’s premier benefactors.

Gary Williams ’68, former men's basketball coach and current scholarship campaign co-chair, received the Athletics Distinguished Alumnus Award for his contributions to Maryland athletics. -JS