Four alumni recognized as inaugural recipients of new volunteer leadership award
The Office of Engagement established a new award for volunteer leadership in 2025 and selected its first four recipients—Becky Callow ’73, Marci Lunder Miller ’77, Hope Gallagher Ogletree ’75 and John Talanian ’93.
The Sharon G. Levine ’70 Memorial Volunteer Leadership Award was created to recognize Levine’s extraordinary dedication to fundraising and volunteerism at Wheaton. “Sharon was devoted to fundraising, mentorship and community, which has left a lasting legacy. She embodied the spirit of the college and inspired other volunteers through her selfless spirit,” said Courtney Ryan Shurtleff, assistant vice president for Advancement.
The award was presented during Reunion Weekend to Ogletree and Talanian for their service, leadership and accomplishments. Callow and Miller will receive their awards at a later date.
Talanian has volunteered at Wheaton for 25 years, including a decade on the President’s Commission. As a member of the Board of Trustees for 14 years, he has chaired several committees and provided leadership and mentorship to many. “You are a trusted advisor, a connector and a quiet force for progress in our community,” said Shurtleff while presenting the award.
Ogletree has served her class and the college with steadfast devotion, serving as her Class Fund agent for 25 consecutive years, as well as class president, class reunion chair and secretary to the Alumni Board. Shurtleff lauded Ogletree for embodying the values that Sharon held most deeply: dedication, mentorship and generosity.