Record Staff Report
Bellarmine University honored seven individuals at its 56th annual Alumni Association Awards dinner Dec. 2 held at the Amelia Brown Frazier Convocation Hall on the university’s campus.
The honorees have “distinguished themselves through professional accomplishments, community service and demonstration of attitudes consistent with Bellarmine values, according to a press release from the university.
This year’s honorees are:
Alumnus of the Year — Ralph Gronefeld, a graduate of the class of 1981, is the retired president and CEO of Rescare, a private home care company which provides services to people with disabilities.
Scarlet and Silver Society Inductee — Jim Vargo, a 1982 graduate, is Bellarmine University’s cross country and track coach. Vargo also served as head track and field coach for the USA Paralympic team and the US Association of Blind Athletes.
Monsignor Horrigan Distinguished Service Award — Dr. Mary Pike, a 1980 graduate, is a member of Bellarmine University’s faculty. Pike is credited with the growth of the school of nursing and clinical sciences as well as the creation of domestic and international clinical learning opportunities for nursing students.
Other distinguished graduates who will be honored are:
Christen Boone, a 2000 graduate, who is president and CEO of the Fund for the Arts. As the former director of external relations for 21st Century Parks, Boone helped to build the Parklands of Floyds Fork.
Dr. Marvin Hanka, a graduate of the class of 1964, is the former medical director of the emergency room at St. Anthony and Caritas Westside Medical Center. During his 37 year career, Hanka was named one of America’s Top Doctors.
Mike Moll, a graduate of 1979, is senior vice president of PNC Bank and director of client and community relations for Kentucky and Tennessee operations. He was chairman of the boards of the Leadership Louisville Center, Louisville Sports Commission and Brightside.
The Accounting Alumna of the Year award will be presented to Cynthia Zipperle, a graduate of the class of 1984. Zipperle is the vice president and chief accounting officer and controller at Humana Inc.
