FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alpha Omega Alumni Association Announces 2024 AO Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
[Crete, Nebraska] - The Alpha Omega Alumni Association is proud to announce the upcoming 2024 AO Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, an event dedicated to celebrating extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions to the Alpha Omega fraternity, Doane University, and their respective fields. This prestigious event will take place on Friday, October 18th, 2024, at Doane University.
The evening will begin with a cocktail reception at 5:00 pm, followed by the induction ceremony at 5:33 pm. Alpha Omega alumni, their families, and friends will join together in recognizing the remarkable achievements of this year’s inductees.
2024 Inductees:
Robert Taylor - A celebrated Hollywood movie star of the golden age, Robert Taylor appeared in over 80 films, sharing the screen with legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Lana Turner. Taylor was close friends with icons like John Wayne, Walt Disney, and Gary Cooper. His legacy is immortalized with a star on Hollywood Boulevard and handprints at the world-famous Dolby Theater. Taylor's funeral eulogy was delivered by then-California Governor Ronald Reagan. In recognition of his illustrious career and enduring impact, Mr. Taylor will be honored posthumously with the Legend Award.
Ward Haylett - A long-time Kansas State University track and field coach, Ward Haylett's journey began at Doane University in 1914, where he earned 16 athletic letters. Haylett coached a young sprinter to three Olympic medals in 1956, including one Gold. He served three terms as a member of the United States Olympic Committee and was inducted into the United States Track & Field Hall of Fame in 1979. Mr. Haylett will be honored posthumously with the Legend Award.
Richard Gibson - Richard Gibson, a dedicated Doane Trustee and a generous donor, will be posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Gibson spent decades as a crop insurance executive, serving as President and CEO of American Agrisurance, Chairman of AgroNational Crop, and a Business Strategy Consultant for NAU Country working primarily with Crop Insurance legislation. Sadly, Mr. Gibson passed away just days after learning of his nomination to the AO Hall of Fame. His enduring contributions to Doane University and the Alpha Omega fraternity will be remembered and celebrated.
Bill Huey - Bill Huey, a long-time active Alpha Omega alumnus, will be honored with the Service to the Fraternity distinction. Bill has been a vital contributor to the AOs, sharing his time and wisdom over many years, particularly during his involvement with the AO alumni council in the 2010s and with the AO Alumni Association.
Richard Held - A 1970 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Doane University, Richard Held has been a dedicated Doane trustee since 2007 and a long-time donor to the institution. His unwavering commitment to Doane University will be recognized with an induction for his service to the university.
Inaugural Old Silver Goblet Award:
The Alpha Omega Alumni Association is also excited to introduce the inaugural Old Silver Goblet Award, which will be presented to Ziad Jaber. This award highlights individuals who excel professionally while upholding the values and standards of Alpha Omega, making them exemplary representatives of the organization. Ziad Jaber, a 2009 graduate, has built a distinguished career as a multimedia news producer with NBC News, covering significant world events, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine. His work has earned him an Emmy nomination and a Peabody Award in 2019 for the piece titled “American Betrayal” on Assignment with Richard Engel.
This event promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating the remarkable achievements and lasting legacies of these distinguished individuals.
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
Michael J. Cochnar
Alpha Omega Alumni Association
Email: aoalumnidoane@gmail.com
Website: aoalumni.com
About Alpha Omega Alumni Association
The Alpha Omega Alumni Association is committed to preserving the traditions, values, and bonds of brotherhood fostered by the Alpha Omega fraternity at Doane University. Through events, programs, and initiatives, we strive to maintain a lifelong connection among alumni and support the continued success of our fraternity and institution.
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