2009 Alumni Awards

Alumni Medal award recipient Frank Crossley

On May 1 more than 250 friends, family, colleagues, and fellow alumni gathered in Hermann Hall to honor the 2009 IIT Alumni Award winners, individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the university, the community, and/or their profession. Many also gathered at a reception the night before for award winners, their families, and the judges committee.

The event was MCed by Vice President for Institutional Advancement Betsy Hughes, and President Anderson spoke to attendees about the importance of alumni and recognizing those honored for their accomplishments.

Alan Cramb gave a moving introduction to Frank Crossley, the 2009 Alumni Medal winner who at the age of 25 became first person of African ancestry in the world to earn a Ph.D. in metallurgy, and the first of any background to earn such a degree at IIT. Crossley's inspiring story saw him became one of the first African-American officers to serve in the United States Navy, and his success in this leadership role contributed to then President Harry Truman's decision to desegregate the United States Armed Forces.

Alumni Medal award recipient Robert Pritzker with IIT President John Anderson

Also awarded the Alumni Medal was Robert Pritzker, the world-renowned businessman, philanthropist and civic leader who has done so much for the City of Chicago and IIT. Introduced by 2009 Alumni Service Award winner Bruce Liimatainen and with a video message from chair of the IIT Board of Trustees John Rowe, Pritzker was recognized for his many accomplishments in business and his commitment to education and civic life. One of only three IIT university regents, Pritzker was inducted into the IIT Hall of Fame in 2002.