This year, for only the second time in the history of the Thurston Bowl, we’re bestowing the award on co-secretaries. One word describes the relationship these secretaries have with the editors and each other: seamless. Though one secretary is more timely than the other (I’ll let them tell you who), the notes always make it in. And rarely do they need any editing. These secretaries also made an effortless transition to the world of electronic communications. They use the class list server to solicit news from classmates and garner material for their columns. But they also use electronic communications to share news of the class and to encourage classmates to be in touch with each other. One recipient has spent almost as long in the role of secretary as he did teaching English at Phillips Academy. He has served four terms—the first two as a solo effort. His “co-scribe,” with only 10 years under his secretarial belt, is as exacting as one would expect a surgeon to be, wielding his pen (or keyboard) to great effect. What’s evident while reading their notes is that each values the day-to-day activities of his classmates as much as he values once-in-a-lifetime achievements. And they’ve always done it without duplicating each other’s efforts—one pitfall common to co-secretaries. For their kindness and warmth, for their dedication and devotion to their classmates and college, and for—between the two of them—30 years of distinguished service as class secretaries, the Society of Alumni is proud to honor, from the Class of 1966 John A. Gould and Palmer Q. (Joe) Bessey.
Megamenu Social