Distinguished Alumni

Horses have been a lifelong passion for Vicki Gillenwater ’87. As a Centre student, she balanced classes and campus life with an elite competitive career, serving as captain of the U.S. Saddleseat Team her first year and winning four individual gold medals, a team gold, and the title of 1985 American Saddlebred Grand National Rider of the Year. She was also active on campus as a Kappa Alpha Theta member, Resident Advisor and Director, and student judiciary representative.

After graduating with a degree in government, Vicki earned a master’s in communications from the University of Tennessee, where she directed internal communications for the Chancellor’s Office. Plans for a political career shifted when the sudden deaths of her mentor and parents brought her back to Scenic View Farm.

Over the past 25 years, Vicki has transformed the farm from one world championship to an astounding 64, with wins across nearly every major breed and discipline. Her horses have earned numerous honors, and she received the 2020 ASHA Gordon Jenkins International Award. In 2024, she was inducted into the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame.

Vicki’s extraordinary impact on the equine industry and unwavering pursuit of excellence make her a fitting 2024 Distinguished Alumnae honoree.

Dr. Steve Leyland ’76 arrived at Centre in 1972 as a pre-med student and baseball player, beginning a lifelong connection to the College and to medicine. In addition to playing on the diamond, he was a Phi Delta Theta member and chaired both the Premedical Society and the American Chemical Society.

After graduating, Steve earned his M.D. from Wright State University School of Medicine in 1981, finishing second in his class and receiving numerous honors, including the Academy of Medicine Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement. He also served as a Diplomat to the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Steve completed his surgical residency at Wright State University Hospital, where he was Chief Resident, Outstanding Resident, and recipient of the Department of Surgery Teaching Excellence Award. He then trained in cardiac and thoracic surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, again serving as chief resident.

Today, Steve is a highly respected cardiothoracic surgeon in Spartanburg, South Carolina, specializing in ischemic and valvular heart disease as well as aortic conditions. His decades of surgical excellence, leadership, and dedication to patient care reflect the very best of Centre College.

Lisa Swem ’79 arrived at Centre determined to make the most of her college experience. A three-sport athlete in basketball, softball, and track and field, she also served as a resident assistant, sang in the choir, played in the orchestra, worked on the yearbook, and was editor of The Cento — all while making the Dean’s List and earning a history degree.

After graduation, Lisa earned an MAT in social studies from Colgate University and a J.D. from Notre Dame Law School, where she again served as an editor, this time for the Journal of College and University Law. She built a distinguished career in education law, admitted to practice before the Michigan bar, U.S. District Court, U.S. Court of Appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court. Lisa is now a leading attorney with the Thrun Law Firm, representing Michigan public schools and writing a widely read “Law Column” for over a decade.

Her passion for education extends to volunteer service, including leadership roles on the President’s Advisory Council and as president of the Centre Alumni Board. For her extraordinary career and commitment, Centre proudly honors her as a 2024 Distinguished Alumnae.

Dr. Mike Bowman ’76 built a distinguished career as an orthopedic hand and foot surgeon in Pittsburgh, named one of the city’s “Best Doctors” eight years in a row. After earning his M.D. from the University of Cincinnati, he completed his residency at the University Health Center of Pittsburgh and fellowships in Philadelphia and Los Angeles. He later served as chair of orthopedic surgery at St. Francis Medical Center and spent 30 years as a clinical associate professor at both the University of Pittsburgh and Drexel University.

A leader in his field, Mike served as president and vice-chair of the American Association of Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeons and helped develop an NFL ankle injury program for athletic trainers and therapists. He was also team physician for the Pittsburgh Penguins, consultant to the Pittsburgh Steelers, and a U.S. Duathlon Team physician in 1992.

Mike has authored numerous publications, presented at 149 professional conferences, and contributed to major textbooks. At Centre, he was a Phi Delta Theta member, swimmer, and valedictorian, earning top honors and a Rhodes Scholarship nomination.

For his exceptional contributions to medicine and sports health, Centre proudly recognizes him as a 2023 Distinguished Alumnus.

LTG Ross Coffman ’89 has devoted more than three decades to exemplary military service and leadership. Commissioned as an Armor Officer through the University of Kentucky ROTC program after graduating from Centre, he completed Airborne, Pathfinder, and Ranger School before deploying with the 3rd Cavalry to Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He later deployed to Haiti and Bosnia with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment and trained combat units at the National Training Center.

After 9/11, Coffman served with the 3rd Infantry Division during the 2003 Iraq invasion, returning to the region multiple times. He also led counter-narcotics operations in South Florida, capturing the first cartel semi-submersible cocaine vessel. He went on to command 1st Battalion, 64th Armor and 1st Brigade Combat Team, and later served as Division Chief of Operations and Chief of Staff.

Promoted to general, Coffman became Deputy Commanding General for Operations in the 1st Infantry Division, overseeing U.S. and NATO war plans in Eastern Europe, and directed the Next Generation Combat Vehicles program, managing $30 billion in defense projects.

A Harvard Kennedy School fellow and MBA graduate, Coffman’s decorated career includes numerous unit and personal honors. Centre proudly recognizes him as a 2023 Distinguished Alumnus.

The Honorable Peggy Purdom Patterson ’72 has been a trailblazer throughout her distinguished legal career — often as the first woman in every role she held. From being the only woman on Centre’s debate team to becoming the first female federal judge in Kentucky in 1990, her path has been defined by leadership and excellence.

A noted expert in federal civil litigation, Judge Patterson set records for the most civil jury trials by a U.S. Magistrate Judge and chaired the Federal Judicial Center’s civil litigation education program, personally training new federal judges. She also served a record 13 years on the Judicial Council of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.

A Centre class president, debate captain, and Rhodes nominee, Peggy earned her J.D. from the University of Kentucky, where she became the first woman to win the National Moot Court competition. She went on to become the first female partner at her law firm and clerked for the U.S. District Court.

A devoted trustee, philanthropist, and advocate, Peggy helped create Kentucky’s domestic violence shelter system and was honored in the “Kentucky Women Remembered” exhibit. For her pioneering impact on law, community, and Centre College, she is recognized as a 2023 Distinguished Alumnae.

Dr. Andrea Zawacki Beaton ’01 is an internationally recognized leader in pediatric cardiology and global health. After completing her fellowship at Children’s National Medical Center in 2013, she launched a research career focused on rheumatic heart disease, earning major grants from the NIH and American Heart Association.

Andrea is the founder of the Rheumatic Heart Disease Research Collaborative in Uganda, now one of the world’s premier research groups, and has published over 100 academic papers, secured more than $25 million in funding, and led groundbreaking studies — including a landmark trial in the New England Journal of Medicine showing improved outcomes through early intervention. She also holds leadership roles with the World Health Organization, World Heart Federation, and AHA.

Since returning to Kentucky in 2019, Andrea has continued her work through Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, while raising four children with her husband, Judge Ben Beaton. She also gives back to Centre as a mentor and Summer Send-off host for new students.

For her extraordinary contributions to medicine, research, and the next generation of Centre graduates, Centre proudly recognizes Dr. Andrea Zawacki Beaton as the 2022 Distinguished Alumna.

Keith Mathis ’76 has built a remarkable career defined by service, innovation, and a deep commitment to sustainability.

A student-athlete and campus leader at Centre — playing football and baseball, volunteering for Admissions, and helping bring legendary band Midnight Star to Homecoming — Keith graduated with a degree in psychobiology and returned as a graduate fellow, admissions counselor, and assistant coach.

After early success in corporate leadership roles with Seagram and as a regional vice president in international commodities trading, Keith and his wife, Karen, founded Netsales & Arts (NSAI) in 2000, initially focused on marketing bronze artwork online. Their company helped commission a Jackie Robinson statue for the YMCA and later evolved into NSAI Energy, which became the first African American- and woman-owned company authorized by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to sell renewable and traditional power nationwide.

Today, Keith leads NSAI as President & CEO, advancing clean energy access and environmental justice. A respected voice in the American Council on Renewable Energy and Solar Energy Industries Association, he continues to model leadership, purpose, and impact.

For his dedication to the planet and to others, Centre honors Keith Mathis with the 2022 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Herbert J. Stapleton ’97, Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient for 2022, embodies service, leadership, and dedication. A native of Staffordsville, Kentucky, Herb graduated from Johnson Central High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, chorus, and leadership roles, including president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

He entered Centre College in 1993, joining Beta Theta Pi fraternity and contributing as a copy editor for the Cento staff. He played an active role in Student Congress and the Council of the College, shaping policies that enhanced campus life. At Centre, Herb double-majored in English and Religion, earning recognition as a John C. Young Scholar and completing a senior research project on Appalachian literature. He was selected as one of two senior speakers for Honors Convocation and received the John Barbour Memorial Prize for excellence in biblical studies. Herb graduated in 1997 and was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa.

After Centre, he attended the University of Kentucky College of Law, where he served on Moot Court Board and represented the school nationally. Following law school and bar admission, Herb practiced law before joining the FBI in 2004. His career has spanned cybercrime, international investigations, and senior leadership roles, culminating in his current position as Special Agent in Charge of the Indianapolis Field Office.

Herb credits Centre’s liberal arts education with fostering the critical thinking that guides his work. He enjoys music, family activities, and being a devoted husband and father.

For her dedication to education and public service, Centre College proudly recognizes Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman ’04 with the Distinguished Alumna Award.

Jacqueline arrived at Centre in 2001, quickly making an impact on the Women’s Basketball team with her infectious enthusiasm. A history major, she credits Centre — and professors like J.H. Atkins and Clarence Wyatt — with shaping her calling as a teacher. After completing her student teaching at Boyle County High School, she began a career in education and coaching that would define her path forward.

Following graduate studies in political science at the University of Louisville, Jacqueline returned to central Kentucky classrooms, teaching social studies and leading basketball teams to record-breaking seasons. Named Regional Coach of the Year in 2015, she also dedicated herself to mentoring young women and founded Lead Kentucky, a nonprofit empowering college women to pursue leadership roles.

Her commitment to education continued as an instructional specialist with the Kentucky Department of Education and later as an assistant principal. Inspired by her family’s legacy of public service, Jacqueline now serves as Kentucky’s 58th Lieutenant Governor.

For his life of compassionate service and faithful leadership, Father Norman A. Fischer Jr. ’95 was honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

A Boyle County native, Norman came to Centre in 1991, where rigorous classes and inspiring mentors shaped his calling to heal and serve. Deeply committed to service, he volunteered with CARE (Centre Action Reaches Everyone), mentored foster children, and worked as a recreational therapist at what is now Sunrise Children’s Services. On campus, he was a Black Student Union officer, track athlete, Resident Advisor, Sigma Chi proconsul, and even performed in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Graduating with degrees in psychology and art, Norman answered a higher calling, enrolling at Mundelein Seminary and meeting St. John Paul II during a pilgrimage to Rome. Ordained in 2000, he became the first priest of African American and Filipino heritage in the Diocese of Lexington, serving parishes including St. Peter Claver.

As chaplain at Lexington Catholic High School and parish priest in downtown Lexington, Father Norman guided countless lives, inspiring young people — including future Centre graduates — to pursue faith and service.

His enduring belief that “what students take from Centre can enlighten the world” continues to guide the Centre community and all who were touched by his ministry.

A distinguished attorney, military leader, and devoted Centre ambassador, Brigadier General Kurt Winstead ’82 embodies a life of service to his country, his community, and his alma mater. After transferring to Centre in 1980, he quickly immersed himself in campus life — from Phi Delta Theta and study abroad to leading the Colonels as quarterback. He guided the team to a conference championship and earned All-Conference honors before graduating with a degree in economics.

Winstead launched his career in Centre’s Admission Office and as an assistant football coach before earning his J.D. from the University of Richmond. In 1990, during the Gulf War, he joined the Tennessee National Guard’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Over more than three decades of service, he earned numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit and Iraq Campaign Medal, and served as Tennessee’s top-ranking JAG officer before his promotion to Brigadier General and Director of Joint Staff.

Beyond his military and legal work, Winstead has been deeply involved in civic leadership, receiving the Citizen Leader of the Year Award in 2012. He has also remained an engaged alumnus, co-chairing Centre’s Parent Committee and mentoring future Colonels.

Centre College proudly honors Brigadier General Kurt Winstead with the 2021 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

For his 38 years of teaching, scholarship, and dedicated service to students, colleagues, and the community, Centre College is proud to honor Dr. James Claypool with the 2019 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

A Fort Mitchell, Kentucky native, Claypool came to Centre after being recruited from Beechwood High School, quickly immersing himself in campus life. He played football, sang in the choir, joined Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and even ran a laundry business — but most importantly, met his future wife, Sharon Hayes ’63. Claypool graduated with a B.A. in history, earning the Ormond Beatty Alumni Prize.

After completing his doctorate at the University of Kentucky, he became the first employee of Northern Kentucky University in 1970, serving as dean of admissions and student affairs. He grew NKU’s enrollment, founded its athletics program with equal scholarships for men and women, and selected school colors inspired by Centre’s gold and white. Later, he served as university archivist and curator while continuing to teach until 2002.

A renowned historian, Claypool co-edited The Encyclopedia of Northern Kentucky and Covington Bicentennial History, appeared on KET, and lectured statewide. He is a member of three Halls of Fame and a respected authority on Kentucky history. His lifelong commitment to education and public scholarship exemplifies the spirit of Centre College.

Frank H. Edelen Jr. has dedicated his life to public service, the legal profession, and to Centre College, which he has supported with remarkable generosity for more than five decades. A native of Springfield, Kentucky, Frank knew early he would attend Centre, where he excelled as an academic leader, fraternity member, chapel choir singer, and Omicron Delta Kappa inductee. He graduated cum laude with a degree in government and pursued advanced study in political science at the University of Kentucky and Victoria University of Manchester.

Frank’s distinguished career reflects a deep commitment to both the law and his community. After earning his J.D. from UK, he served as city attorney for Ashland, president of the Municipal Attorneys Association of Kentucky, and later as the inaugural director of the Kentucky Municipal Law Center at NKU. He taught for more than two decades, published widely on municipal law, and advised city officials across Kentucky.

A devoted civic leader, Frank has been an active Lions Club member for more than 45 years and served on the Lakeside Park City Council and its Board of Zoning Adjustments. Through loyal annual giving, leadership roles, and the establishment of a scholarship with his wife, Cheryl, he continues to strengthen the Centre community and inspire future generations.

Clarence R. Wyatt has built a distinguished career defined by scholarship, leadership, and a deep commitment to civic service. A first-generation college student from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, he arrived at Centre in 1974 as a National Merit Scholar, double majoring in history and English while contributing to campus life as a writer, editor, and student leader.

After graduation, Wyatt returned to Centre, launching a 36-year career as both an administrator and faculty member. He completed his master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Kentucky, publishing the acclaimed Paper Soldiers: The American Press and the Vietnam War, and became a leading authority on media and the Vietnam War. His teaching excellence earned him the Pottinger Distinguished Professorship, the Kirk Award, and multiple C. Eric Mount Awards.

Wyatt’s leadership extended beyond the classroom — from directing the Governor’s Scholars Program to shaping Centre’s strategic vision and leading student trips to Vietnam and Cambodia. In 2014, he became the 14th president of Monmouth College, where he has driven institutional growth, launched major initiatives, and championed diversity and inclusion.

A tireless community advocate, Wyatt has served numerous civic organizations and continues to embody the values of service and leadership that define Centre College’s mission.

Gail Mitchell Hoyt ’89 has devoted her career to teaching and advancing the economics profession. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate and top economics major at Centre College, she went on to earn her master’s and Ph.D. in economics from the University of Kentucky. After teaching at Centre and the University of Richmond, Gail returned to UK in 1994, where she has become a legend in the classroom. Known for her remarkable ability to learn the names of hundreds of students in her 500-person introductory courses, she brings energy, humor, and clarity to economic concepts.

Her dedication to students has earned her virtually every teaching award at UK, as well as national recognition, including the Kenneth G. Elzinga Distinguished Teaching Award from the Southern Economic Association and designation as one of the “Great Teachers in Economics” by the Stavros Center at Florida State University.

A teacher of teachers, Gail directs graduate student training in UK’s economics department and co-founded the long-running UK Economics Teaching Workshop, which draws faculty from across the region. Her scholarship on economic education has appeared in leading journals such as the American Economic Review and Journal of Economic Education, where she now serves as co-editor.

Centre College proudly honors Gail Mitchell Hoyt with its 2018 Distinguished Alumna Award.

Michael W. Jackson ’85 has built a distinguished career of public service and justice that has earned him national recognition and deep respect from his peers. A native of Decatur, Georgia, Michael came to Centre College in 1981, where he immersed himself in campus life—playing football and running track, serving as vice president of the Black Student Union, and excelling academically. He graduated with both a B.A. in Government and a B.S. in Economics & Management before earning his Juris Doctor from Florida State University College of Law.

Michael began his legal career in the District Attorney’s Office for Alabama’s Fourth Judicial Circuit, later entering private practice and becoming, at age 31, the youngest municipal judge in Alabama. In 2004, he made history again as the first African American elected District Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit and only the second in the state’s history.

His leadership brought national attention in 2010 when he reopened the 1965 case of Jimmie Lee Jackson, whose death helped spark the Selma-to-Montgomery march. Michael’s pursuit of justice brought long-awaited closure to that civil rights-era crime.

Honored as Alabama’s District Attorney of the Year, Michael continues to serve with integrity and purpose. Centre College proudly recognizes him with its 2018 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Tony Kurlas ’93 exemplifies excellence in leadership, community engagement, and loyalty to his alma mater. A four-year member of the Colonels football team and Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity at Centre, Tony graduated with a deep appreciation for the mentors and experiences that shaped him. His senior season saw him recognized as Most Improved Player, Most Valuable Offensive Lineman, and a First Team All-SCAC selection.

Tony has since built an exceptional 23-year career with Merrill Lynch, where he has spent more than two decades in executive management. In 2003, just ten years after graduating from Centre, he became the firm’s youngest Market Executive. Today, he leads the North Florida market in Jacksonville—consistently ranked among Merrill Lynch’s top five markets nationwide—and has mentored and developed more than 100 financial advisors who continue to thrive at the firm.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tony has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to his communities, serving on the boards of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and multiple university foundations. His passion for philanthropy led him to establish the Kurlas Family Foundation of Jacksonville and endow scholarships and research initiatives benefiting education and healthcare.

Through his career, service, and devotion to Centre College, Tony Kurlas embodies the values of leadership and generosity.

Dr. William A. Meriwether ’43 is an acclaimed physician, dedicated educator, and lifelong champion of Centre College. A biology major and valedictorian, he vividly recalls hearing of the Pearl Harbor attack while playing bridge in Breckinridge Hall—a moment that changed his life. After graduating, he entered medical school at the University of Tennessee through the Army Specialized Training Program and went on to serve a distinguished 24-year career as a pathologist in the U.S. Army Medical Corps.

Dr. Meriwether’s military service took him across the globe—from Korea and Japan to Germany, Panama, and Puerto Rico—where his diagnostic skills and curiosity often led to creative problem-solving. His expertise earned him the Legion of Merit and a reputation for scientific excellence. Following his retirement as a colonel in 1975, he continued his service to medicine as director of surgical pathology and professor at the University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio.

Throughout his career, Dr. Meriwether contributed significant research to medical literature and trained generations of young physicians. A storyteller at heart and devoted Centre alumnus, he has remained deeply connected to his alma mater and never misses a Centre gathering in San Antonio.

Centre College proudly honors Dr. William A. Meriwether with the 2017 Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Jane Blair Skidmore ’64 has dedicated her life to education, community service, and Centre College. A lifelong educator, she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Centre and later a master’s from Union College, where she was inducted into the Educators Hall of Fame. Her distinguished career as a teacher spanned classrooms in Louisville, Barbourville, and California, earning her numerous accolades including the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Green Leaf Award, and multiple congressional recognitions for outstanding service to education.

Beyond her teaching, Jane has been a tireless advocate for education across Kentucky. She has served on the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, the Governor’s Scholars Board of Directors, and the Kentucky Writing Advisory Committee. Her civic leadership extends to roles on the Barbourville City Council, Union College Board of Trustees—where she has served as Secretary since 2006—and numerous community organizations, from the Women’s Study Club to the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival.

A devoted alumna, Jane has served on Centre’s Alumni Board and reunion committees, and remains deeply connected to the College she loves. Her Centre legacy continues through her family—her late husband Stephen ’64, son Blair ’94, and mother Jane Minton Blair ’42.

Centre College proudly honors Jane Blair Skidmore with the 2017 Distinguished Alumna Award.

For the example he provides to current and future Centre students and for his unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of others, Centre College is pleased to present Dr. Bill Smock, Class of 1981, with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Dr. Bill Smock has long been an advocate for public health and safety, beginning as a volunteer firefighter in Louisville at age 17. At Centre, he pursued a major in psychobiology and demonstrated an early passion for saving lives, leading efforts to improve campus fire safety by advocating for upgraded smoke and fire detection systems.

After earning his M.D. from the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Bill served as an emergency room physician and Police Surgeon with the Louisville Metro Police Department. He established a gunshot wound tracking database, developed the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program, and advised agencies including the FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service.

A respected professor of emergency medicine at UofL, Bill is known for his calm presence and dedication to mentoring future doctors. His humanitarian work includes medical mission trips to Tanzania and Kenya and leadership roles with organizations such as Waterstep, Supplies Over Seas, and Supporting Heroes.

For his lifelong dedication to service, Centre College proudly recognizes Dr. Bill Smock ’81 with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

A leader in global business strategy and a dedicated Centre College alumnus, Scott Bohannon ’91 has built a career defined by intellectual curiosity, innovation, and service.

Originally from Cocoa, Florida, Scott immersed himself in campus life at Centre—serving as president of the debate team and the Encounter speaker series, joining Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and participating in an archaeological excavation in Israel. A John C. Young Scholar, he graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa with a self-designed major in public policy, earning both the Cheek Memorial Prize for political science and the Wall Street Journal Award for economics.

Scott went on to earn a J.D., M.A., and Ph.D. in economics from the University of Virginia. After beginning his career with Sidley Austin in Washington, D.C., he spent twelve years at Corporate Executive Board (now CEB Inc.), helping guide its rapid global expansion. In 2011, he founded nsight2day, a management consulting firm, and since 2014 has served as CEO of Info-Tech Research Group, addressing complex challenges in strategy, technology, and change management.

An engaged alumnus, Scott has mentored students, hosted leadership programs, and organized a national conference at Centre on preparing Millennials to lead. His enduring commitment to the College exemplifies the spirit of leadership and service celebrated by the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

For more than four decades, Dr. Franklin Foster ’73 has embodied the values of leadership, service, and lifelong learning that define Centre College. A native and lifelong resident of Scottsville, Kentucky, Franklin came to Centre in 1969 as the kind of student the College’s founders envisioned—intellectually curious, community-minded, and eager to make a difference.

At Centre, he was a member of Phi Delta Theta and the pep band, graduating with a B.A. in history before earning a master’s and Doctor of Education in educational administration from the University of Kentucky, as well as a master’s in history from Western Kentucky University.

Franklin devoted more than 30 years to teaching at Allen County High School, later continuing his career at Portland High School in Tennessee, where he remains dedicated to rural education. Since 1979, he has also served on the Scottsville City Council, earning local fame for his humor and straight talk.

A proud and tireless ambassador for Centre, Franklin has inspired 23 of his students—including both of his children—to attend the College. His enthusiasm, mentorship, and deep belief in the transformative power of education have left an indelible mark on generations of students and his community alike.

Centre proudly honors Franklin Foster for his lifelong service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to his alma mater.

Throughout her distinguished career, Beverly White Yeager ’54 has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to public service, leaving a lasting impact on politics, health, and the arts in Florida and across the nation.

A native of Florida, Beverly attended Centre College before completing her bachelor’s degree in political science and master’s degree in education administration at Florida State University. She began her career in Naval intelligence at the Pentagon, later transitioning to teaching and public service.

Beverly’s remarkable ability to unite people across party lines led to four presidential appointments—two from Republican presidents and two from Democrats. President Ronald Reagan appointed her to the National Museum Services Board and as chair of the Commission on Presidential Scholars, while President Bill Clinton appointed her twice to the Advisory Committee of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.

She launched Florida’s state arts program, served as director of the Division of Cultural Affairs, and contributed to the Statue of Liberty Commission and the U.S. Senate Women’s Advisory Committee. Her civic leadership also includes decades of fundraising for health and humanitarian causes, most notably founding a committee supporting the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, which honored her as a “Woman of Vision.”

Beverly’s lifelong service reflects her belief that talents are gifts to be shared—and her legacy continues to inspire.

A respected business leader, civic advocate, and loyal Centre College supporter, Craig W. Johnson ’75 exemplifies the College’s ideals of leadership, service, and integrity.

Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, Craig enrolled at Centre in 1971, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in economics. A campus leader, he served as president of Phi Delta Theta and captain of the swimming team before earning his M.B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Craig began his career with Prudential Insurance Company of America, quickly advancing to management in its real estate investment division. In 1985, he co-founded Centre Properties, a specialty real estate firm that has since developed more than 2.2 million square feet of retail space throughout Central Indiana.

Deeply engaged in his Indianapolis community, Craig has devoted his time and resources to organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boy Scouts, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Herron School of Art & Design, where he established the Craig W. Johnson Scholarship Fund.

A dedicated ambassador for Centre, Craig has supported admission and capital campaigns, chaired reunion committees, and served on the Board of Trustees. In recognition of his generosity, Centre named its renovated pool in Boles Natatorium in his honor.

Craig Johnson’s enduring leadership and philanthropy embody the true spirit of a Centre education.

A respected attorney, community leader, and loyal Centre College alumnus, John R. Rhorer, Jr. ’78 exemplifies the values of dedication, integrity, and service that define a Centre education.

A third-generation Colonel, John followed in the footsteps of his parents and grandfather. At Centre, he excelled academically, earning multiple Dean’s List honors and graduating with high distinction and a degree in government. A member of Delta Kappa Epsilon, the Chain Club, and Omicron Delta Kappa, John also served as a Junior Marshal. His greatest Centre success, he notes, was convincing classmate Courtney Miller to become his wife.

John earned his J.D. from the University of Kentucky in 1981, graduating as a member of the Order of the Coif and the Kentucky Law Journal. After beginning his career with Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, he became a founding partner of Dinsmore & Shohl’s Lexington office. Recognized nationally for his expertise in real estate and mineral law, he has been named to Best Lawyers in America annually since 1999 and to Kentucky Super Lawyers.

Beyond his professional success, John has served as president of the Fayette County Bar Association, the Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation, and God’s Pantry Food Bank, among others. A devoted alumnus, he has long supported Centre as a class agent, reunion leader, and advocate for Delta Kappa Epsilon’s return to campus.

John Rhorer’s lifelong commitment to his clients, community, and alma mater reflects the very best of Centre College.

For his exemplary service to our country, we are proud to recognize Major General Kirk F. Vollmecke as a Distinguished Alumnus of Centre College.

A native of the St. Louis area, Kirk came to Centre as one of the first recipients of the Union-Pacific Scholarship, established by former Union Pacific CEO and Centre trustee Jim Evans. At Centre, he excelled both in and out of the classroom—competing on the football and track teams, joining Beta Theta Pi, serving as Treasurer of the Student Congress, and graduating in 1984 with majors in English and Economics & Management. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the College’s ROTC program.

Over his distinguished military career, Kirk has served around the world, including deployments to Honduras, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He has held leadership roles at the Pentagon, Fort Sam Houston, and Aberdeen Proving Ground, where he currently serves as Deputy Program Executive Officer for Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, and Sensors.

His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star, among many others.

Beyond his military service, Kirk remains active in veterans’ initiatives and autism outreach programs, exemplifying the values of leadership and service that define a Centre education.