Two women, one a master's student and the other a doctoral student, posing together, smiling and dressed in graduation gowns.

Distinguished Alumni Award

Re-established in 2023 by the Warner School, the Distinguished Alumni Award salutes the exceptional accomplishments of alumni whose professional achievements, commitments to their field, and community service embodies the Warner School’s mission.

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Recognize the outstanding accomplishments of a fellow Warner School graduate who exemplifies the heart of the Warner School’s mission: to make the world ‘Ever Better.’

Kathy Parrinello standing at a Warner podium, smiling, after receiving her alumni award.

2024 Award Recipient

Kathleen Parrinello ‘75N, ’83N (MS), ’90W (PhD), president and CEO of Strong Memorial Hospital, has been honored with the Warner School of Education and Human Development’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Parrinello’s outstanding contributions to healthcare and education make her a distinguished leader in both fields.

The principles and insights gained from her doctoral study at the Warner School have shaped her leadership approach and allowed her to bridge the gap between educational theory and practice in healthcare. Her commitment to education, mentorship, and community service continues to leave a lasting impact on healthcare delivery and the greater Rochester community.

Read more about Parrinello receiving Warner's Distinguished Alumni Award.

What is the Distinguished Alumni Award?

The Distinguished Alumni Award celebrates the extraordinary accomplishments of alumni who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to their profession, made significant contributions to their field, and generously served their communities. Inherent in our mission at the Warner School, these attributes exemplify the transformative power of education and its potential to shape the world.

Recognizing Exemplary Achievements

At the Warner School, we believe that education can transform lives and make the world more just and humane. Through the Distinguished Alumni Award, we acknowledge alumni who are are truly making a difference, day in and day out. Award recipients are defined not just by their impressive professional achievements but their significant contributions to their fields and remarkable service to their communities.

The Warner School Impact

Being a part of the Warner School community is more than gaining an education. It's about using the knowledge, skills and experiences gained from that educational experience to impact meaningful change, to push boundaries, and to transform lives. The Distinguished Alumni Award salutes our outstanding alumni who have exhibited the transformative power of the Warner School and who continue to inspire current and future generations of students to strive for excellence.