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The Galvin Award was established for Illinois Institute of Technology to honor non-alumni for their leadership and dedication. This award recognizes an individual whose service, leadership, and philanthropy have significantly advanced the university.
B.A. English (’61), Northeastern University; M.L.A. (’12), University of Chicago
Mitchell recently retired as CEO of ABS Associates, a company she co-founded with her husband, Tom, in 1982 to provide outsourced helpdesk, desktop, and network support services to major corporations. Prior to ABS Mitchell served as president of public relations firm Creative Communications. Raised in an era when women were expected only to become wives and mothers, Mitchell says, “I never in my wildest dreams thought I’d be an entrepreneur and own a business.” She achieved success at both home and work, balancing a 56-year marriage, four children, and a long and accomplished career.
Mitchell is an honorary member of the Stuart School of Business chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma and received the Keith and Freddie Pederson Distinguished Leadership Award from the Barrington Area Council on Aging for her outstanding leadership on behalf of older adults and family caregivers in the community. In 2016 she received a Stevie Award, which honors female entrepreneurs, executives, and the organizations they manage.
Known for never turning down a volunteer assignment, Mitchell serves many organizations, but her service to Illinois Tech has been truly transformational for Stuart School of Business since she joined their Board of Advisors 20 years ago. As chair she used her winning personality to attract successful alumni and business leaders to Stuart’s board. She led efforts to build a mentoring program designed to connect board members and students. The result is a program that has enriched the lives of everyone involved, forming bonds across generations, classes, races, and cultures. In 2008 she was asked to have an even greater impact by joining the university Board of Trustees and shares her keen insight and leadership as a member of the Finance Committee. The Mitchells have also given generously to Illinois Tech, funding various initiatives and helping to establish the Harvey and Dianne Kahalas Scholarship Fund.
Illinois Tech President Alan W. Cramb nominated Mitchell for the Galvin Award, commenting on the innovative leadership and critical thinking she has brought to her board service. He notes that “Rosemarie’s spirit, tenacity, and dedication have significantly advanced the university in a very special way.”
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