The University of Idaho Argonaut

A little known fact about Boise is that the largest Vandal alumni base is located there.

Because of that fact, Sandy Larsen, the assistant director of alumni events for the University of Idaho, arranged for the Silver and Gold Ceremony to be held in the Treasure Valley last week.

“The people being awarded are those that excel in the Vandal community, but also in their local communities,” Larsen said.

According to the UI alumni’s Web site, the awards are presented annually. The Silver and Gold Award recognizes alumni who have a distinguished record of achievement and service in their specialized area, thus bringing recognition to the university.

This year, Frances and Roy Ellsworth were honored for their philanthropy and volunteerism efforts. The Ellsworths’ have worked with St. Alphonsus Hospital and the Humane Society in Boise. Frances Ellsworth graduated in 1983.

Wayne Wohler, president of the UI Alumni Association, said Frances Ellsworth gave the most profound speech because of her humility.
At the event, Frances Ellsworth said she hoped as she goes on, she will have earned this award, but Wohler said this was touching because she had already earned it many times over.

The Jim Lyle Award recognizes individuals or couples who have shown long-term dedication and service to the university and/or the alumni association through volunteerism.

Several other alumni were recognized with a medallion, inscribed with the words loyalty, volunteerism and service. Those awarded include Jim Dickinson (’77, ’81), Dolores Chapman (’61) and Tom and Diana Nicholson (’59).

Larsen said these volunteers help with recruitment and are also involved with several organizations on campus or with the alumni association. These volunteers raise money for scholarships and help provide funding for the university through donation.

Wohler said as a volunteer, it is important to build ties and contribute to the well-being of a community you care about. Wohler said volunteerism was embodied through the recipients of these awards.