Macalester – Please join me in congratulating James (Jim) Bennett, class of 1969, as the recipient of the Catharine Lealtad Service to Society Award.
The Catharine Lealtad Service to Society Award honors a Macalester alumni of color who has distinguished themselves in service to community. The award was established in memory of Catharine Lealtad, Class of 1915, the first African American graduate of Macalester. She had an admirable career as a physician, in the military and as a medical missionary. In addition, she served children and the poor around the world.
Catharine Lealtad Award recipients demonstrate a practical acceptance of these obligations in their lives and work fulfilling the following criteria:
- an alumnus/alumna of color who is a role model for people of color
- leadership or significant accomplishment in civic, religious and/or professional activities
- college education the source of inspiration and training
- unselfish and effective service to the community
Jim will receive his award on Reunion Weekend 2014 at the annual Breakfast with Brian event, Saturday, June 7, 2014. I hope that those attending Reunion weekend, particularly alumni in the Twin Cities, will attend this event and congratulate Jim in person for receiving this very high honor. This breakfast is very special and I am certain that you will enjoy it. You will be receiving more information about Jim and his accomplishments in the near future when formal announcements of all Alumni Awards are made known. However, I know what Jim has done in his professional career and he very deserving of this honor. Congratulations to my Texas homeboy. You have done good.