1972 - Dr. Alfred B. Bonds, Jr.
GRINDSTONE AWARD
1972

 

Dr. Alfred B.
Bonds, Jr.
In 1972, during his 17th year as president of Baldwin-Wallace College, Dr. Alfred Bryan Bonds, Jr. was named Berea's Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

It was of special significance that the head of Berea's largest nonpublic educational institution was so honored. It represented, in yet another way, the achievement of a cherished goal on the part of the honoree: that there should be a close, mutually beneficial, symbiotic relationship between the College and the city and people of Berea. To Dr. Bonds, "Town and Gown" was more than a convenient catch-phrase; it was, and is, the foundation stone of his long and successful administration at Baldwin-Wallace. That "A. B." became not only Baldwin-Wallace's Outstanding Citizen, but Berea's too, marks the epitome of success in harmonious Town and Gown relations.

Dr. Bonds is a native of Arkansas and is possessor of at least three assets of pure gold -- a tongue, a touch and a wife.

His articulateness and speaking ability are well known to every Berean and to many, many other people throughout the world.

His Midas touch has resulted in attracting large amounts of money to the College, much of which has directly or indirectly benefited the entire community.

His wife, Georgianna, in addition to her supportive role as a wife of a college president, is a tireless and capable leader in many organizations, including local, state, national and international posts with the Girls Scouts, as well as United Methodist Women and P.E.O.

In 1957, Dr. Bonds initiated a 15-year development program for Baldwin-Wallace, which resulted in increasing student enrollment by 85 per cent and added Ritter Library, five residence halls, the science complex, the Health Center, Finnie Stadium, the College Union, the Art and Drama Center, the Jacob Kamm School of Business building and the Administration building bearing his name to the campus. These facilities, the student body and the faculty and other College personnel add much to the economic, cultural and general quality of life for all residents of this area.

Dr. Bonds is a member of the Albert E. Baesel Post #91, American Legion, is a 33rd degree Mason and is represented in numerous other civic, religious and educational organizations. Dr. Bonds is listed in "Who's Who in America," "Who's Who in the World" and in "Notable Americans" as well.

The Bonds live on Beech Street and have four children.
Presented January 16, 1973 Strosacker Hall, Baldwin-Wallace College