Horace Dutton Taft Alumni Medal
(Known as the Citation of Merit 1960—2011)
The Horace Dutton Taft Alumni Medal is the school’s highest alumni honor and is given each year to a person whose life work best typifies the school motto: Not to be served but to serve. The recipient’s life and actions must demonstrate something humanitarian apart from a vocation or service. He or she must have gone above the ordinary demands of life or occupation. Success in a chosen field does not necessarily qualify a person for the honor. At the same time, it is possible for a person to be eminently successful and go beyond the call of duty to serve others.
An alumni committee meets each January to review names that have been recommended by fellow alums and to determine the recipient. Alumni are encouraged to put forth the name of an alumnus or alumna to be considered. Eligibility for the Horace Dutton Taft Alumni Medal is also extended to those who are or have been connected with the school or who have shown special interest in Taft. Candidates must be living to receive the award. The award is bestowed at the Old Guard Dinner on Alumni Weekend.
All citations, since the award’s creation in 1960, hang in a place of honor along Main Hall. The Horace Dutton Taft Alumni Medal is a reminder of Taft’s commitment to serve others.
To nominate someone for the Horace Dutton Taft Alumni Medal
Simply send a message to HoraceDTaftAlumniMedal@taftschool.org. Please include the person's name, class year, and the reason you think he or she should be considered.