Drury University honored six outstanding individuals with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards during a ceremony on May 10 as part of graduation weekend. Established in 1951, the Distinguished Alumni Awards recognize Drury graduates who have demonstrated professional excellence, loyalty to the university, and exemplary community service. Dr. Charles Taylor, Director of Alumni Relations, emphasized that the honorees represent the very best of Drury’s values of lifelong learning and leadership. Selected through nominations from the Drury community and a vote by the Alumni Council, this year’s recipients showcase a wide range of achievements across medicine, public service, education, and community engagement.

The 2025 awardees include Dr. Mark Adams ’75 (Lifetime Achievement Award), a nationally recognized orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine leader; Dr. Amanda Kilker Ombrello ’99 (Career Achievement Award), a pioneer in the field of autoinflammatory disease research; and Hadeil Ali ’16 (Young Alumni Award), a rising voice in global development and national security policy. Dr. Tijuana Julian ’81 (Faculty/Staff Appreciation Award) is recognized for her decades of leadership and innovation in Drury’s student services and music programs. Susan Kirby ’70 (University Engagement Award) is celebrated for her lifelong dedication to connecting alumni and students, and Virginia Darr M.Ed. ’74 (Community Engagement Award) is honored for her transformative philanthropic efforts that have strengthened education and child welfare initiatives throughout the Springfield area. Together, these honorees reflect the profound impact Drury alumni continue to have locally, nationally, and globally.

Learn more at www.drury.edu/distinguished

Drury University celebrated the Class of 1975’s induction into the Golden Circle during a special luncheon on Friday, May 9, 2025. Marking 50 years since their graduation, these distinguished alumni were also honored during the Spring Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, with special regalia, reserved seating, and recognition from the podium. Throughout the weekend, the Class of 1975 reconnected over receptions, shared memories, and reflected on their lasting bond with Drury. The festivities highlighted not just the passage of time, but the deep loyalty and impact these alumni continued to have on the university community.