Ira M. Rutkow '70, a surgeon and author whose writing has focused on the history of American medicine, will give the keynote address at Founders Day on Thursday, Feb. 22 at 12:45 p.m. in Memorial Chapel. Rutkow, who will receive the College's Founders Medal, will talk about Union's leadership role in medicine.
Rutkow earned his medical degree from St. Louis University and a master's and doctorate in public health from Johns Hopkins University. He developed the surgical operation that is considered the gold standard in hernia repair. He is retired from clinical practice and writes full time. He is the author of many books, including “James A. Garfield” (2006); “Bleeding Blue and Gray: Civil War Surgery and the Evolution of American Medicine” (2005); “American Surgery: An Illustrated History” (1998); and “Surgery: An Illustrated History” (1993), named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year.
Also at Founders Day, Kenneth G. DeBono, the Gilbert R. Livingston Professor of Behavioral Sciences, will be recognized with the Stillman Prize for Excellence in Teaching. DeBono is an active promoter of undergraduate research.
The Gideon Hawley Teacher Recognition Award will go to Laurence P. Brown '74 of Scarsdale (New York) High School. He was nominated by William Friedman '10. A former labor lawyer and businessman, Brown teaches American history, public policy and criminal justice. He is the father of Meredith Brown '08.
In addition, the Hollander Musician Prize will be presented to a musician or ensemble.
All members of the academic community who wish to robe and process for Founders Day are asked to assemble in Everest Lounge 12:30 p.m. The Schenectady Pipe Band will lead the march to Memorial Chapel at 12:40 p.m. For more information, contact William Finlay, College marshal and associate professor of Theater and Dance, at ext. 6475.