Thursday, June 24, 2004

Governor Proclaims June 23 John Toll Day

Chestertown, MD, June 23, 2004 — At a gala tribute held June 22 at the Maryland Historical Society, Governor Robert Ehrlich proclaimed today, Wednesday, June 23, 2004, as John S. Toll Day throughout the State of Maryland in honor of Washington College's 25th president and former Chancellor of the University of Maryland System whose career spans 60 years of service to higher education.

“Thank you, Governor, for that kind gesture,” said Dr. Toll. “I hope all celebrants will spend their John Toll Day doing something that they love to do, something that will benefit others, something that will help young people realize the transformative power of education.”

College supporters, staff and friends gathered to celebrate the man who has done so much to transform Maryland's oldest institution of higher education into one of the nation's premier colleges of liberal arts and sciences. In addition, the event raised $500,000 for the new Science Center, which—as announced last night—will be named in honor of Dr. Toll, who concludes his presidency on June 30.

With more than 180 in attendance, the tribute also attracted Maryland leaders in politics and education, including U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes, President of the Senate Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, Dr. Brit Kirwan, Chancellor of the University System of Maryland, and Freeman Hrabowski, III, President of the University of Maryland-Baltimore County, who acted as Master of Ceremonies.

“As I begin a new chapter in my life, I will draw inspiration from the lessons that I have learned during my 60 years as a college student,” Dr Toll said to those gathered. “It has been a delight and privilege to serve alongside you in this wonderful adventure.”

Governor's Declaration

Whereas, John Toll has demonstrated outstanding leadership and vision during a career in higher education that has spanned six decades, always exhibiting astute practical sensibilities and genuine warmth in relating to various constituencies; and

Whereas, he has proven equally adept at building research universities, particularly the University of Maryland System, and at leading to great distinction Washington College, a national liberal arts college on Maryland's Eastern Shore; and

Whereas, this eminent scientist has made significant and lasting contributions to the field of elementary particle physics and to science education throughout the nation; and

Whereas, John Toll is retiring his presidency of Washington College at the close of this academic year, and is being celebrated at a gala tribute dinner in Baltimore this day,

Therefore, I do hereby formally declare June 23, 2004, to be John S. Toll Day.

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