Adelaide Gomer
JAMES J. WHALEN MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD
This award recognizes non-alumni for their distinguished contributions to Ithaca College through their professional, civic, or philanthropic activities. All recipients have had a significant connection to IC, such as membership on the board of trustees, longtime service as a staff or faculty member, or volunteer work on behalf of the college. This award is named for and honors Ithaca College's sixth president.
Adelaide Park Gomer served as a Trustee of Ithaca College from 1996 to 2007 & 2008 to 2017. She served as a member of the Audit & Finance, Buildings & Grounds, & Campus Life & Community Committees. She said: "Joining the Board of Trustees provides a special opportunity for me to bring together my experience in various aspects of education with my interests in higher education in general and Ithaca College in particular.”
During her tenure as an IC trustee, she helped establish the Park Scholar Program, which evolved into a $30 million endowment. Scholarships cover all 4 years and are awarded to a select group of students who aspire to be part of a dynamic learning community & conscientious communications professionals.
Her personal passion for a responsible Fourth Estate resulted in the establishment of the Park Center for Independent Media, a progressive speaker and internship program. Housed on the Ithaca College campus, the Center’s mission is to engage media producers and students in dialogue and action about independent media, especially U.S.-based outlets producing content (across single- or multiple-content platforms) on issues such as equity, social justice, and sustainability.
Adelaide's support has been integral to the success of Project Look Sharp, another program housed at IC. Offering support to K-16 educators around the world, the Project produces media literacy materials and professional development opportunities to enhance students’ critical thinking, metacognition, and civic engagement.
Thanks to the vision and generosity of Adelaide, the Park family, and the Park Foundation, the communications leaders of tomorrow will be able to focus on pursuing their dreams and maximizing their impact on their community today at Ithaca College.
Since 2009, Adelaide has been President of the Park Foundation awarding grants for scholarships, independent media, and the environment. She previously served as its Vice President since 1995. Adelaide’s independent philanthropy is focused on protecting democratic ideals and preventing political corruption by focusing on the impact of corporate and neoconservative dark money in politics.
<<BACK