Walsh University celebrated the annual Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony, held on Friday, September 20, as part of the Maroon & Gold Weekend festivities. The event recognized five exceptional individuals for their professional achievements, community service, and lasting impact on the Walsh community.
The awards presented included:
Young Alumni Award: Recognizes alumni 35 years old or younger who demonstrate exemplary professional achievement, community service, and engagement with Walsh University.
Recipient: Alex Branham ’20, ’22
As the Manager of Campaign and Corporate Engagement at the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, Branham has made significant strides in combating global food insecurity. “Walsh instilled in me what it means to be a leader in service to others. I want to give back,” he said.
Professional Achievement Award: Honors alumni who have made significant achievements in their professional careers.
Recipient: Jennifer Borowy ’09, ’10
As President and CEO of Michigan First Credit Union, Borowy has expanded financial services for low-income communities. In her acceptance message, she expressed gratitude, stating, “Walsh provided an excellent education, mentors and gave me many lifelong friends.”
Outstanding Achievement Award: Acknowledges alumni for their leadership, contributions to their professions, and service to the community and Walsh University.
Recipient: Ellen Kutz ’83, ’94
With over four decades at Walsh, Kutz has impacted countless students as an Academic Advisor. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Without Walsh, I would have never been able to accomplish all of the goals that I didn’t even know I had.”
Distinguished Service Award: Recognizes alumni who have provided exemplary service to the Walsh University Alumni Association.
Recipient: Timothy Fautsko ’67
A lifelong public servant, Fautsko has made a national impact through his work in court security. He also served on the Walsh University Board of Directors, with his term ending in 2020, during which he and his wife established the Fautsko Endowment Scholarship. Alumnus Mike O’Brien ‘66 accepted the award on his behalf, stating, “Timm learned the meaning of service and helping others at Walsh.”
Lifetime Achievement Award: Celebrates alumni whose careers and community involvement reflect a lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
Recipient: Samuel J. Sliman ’77 (Posthumously)
Sliman, a former Vice Chair of the Walsh University Board of Trustees, was honored for his dedication to the University. His daughter, Melissa Lombardi, accepted the award, saying, “Walsh is more than a school to us, it is a part of the fabric of our lives.”
The Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony reflects Walsh University’s ongoing commitment to fostering leaders who serve their communities. Each recipient embodies the University’s mission, demonstrating that a Walsh education extends far beyond the classroom. As education partners for life, Walsh University remains dedicated to supporting our alumni in their personal and professional journeys, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to society long after graduation.
