HFCC Foundation Welcomes its First 'Director Emeritus'
Edsel Ford II was inducted as 'Director Emeritus' of the HFCC Foundation Board during a special ceremony December 8. "I am honored to be the first Director Emeritus of the Foundation," Ford commented. "I admire the students of Henry Ford Community College, both their work ethic and dedication to their studies. I look forward to remaining active and supportive of HFCC students in the years ahead." With this honor, Ford - a Foundation Director for nearly 12 years - is given lifetime membership on the Board. The presentation was the highlight of the Foundation Board's annual Holiday Dinner.
Guests to the December 8 HFCC Foundation Board Holiday Dinner were greeted by this customized Santa Ice sculpture - complete with Ford logo belt buckle - in honor of Edsel Ford II becoming a 'Director Emeritus' of the Foundation. The ice sculpture was created by the College's Ice Carving Club, under the direction of faculty advisor Richard Teeple.
A jovial Gail Mee, HFCC President welcomes attendees to the Foundation Board Holiday Dinner. "Director Emeritus status is'good for life,'" Dr. Mee remarked, "so we look forward to Edsel's wise counsel and active involvement for many years to come."
"We are delighted to award Edsel this special honorary board status," noted Dr. Walter Talamonti, Chair of the HFCC Foundation Board. "When it came time to make our selection, there was no other candidate discussed beyond Edsel. His service to the college, his standing as a leader in industry and manufacturing, and his many charitable endeavors uniquely qualifies him for this honor."
Edsel Ford II admires an engraved scroll that he received as the Foundation's first 'Director Emeritus.' Included in the presentation were (from left) James Schoolmaster, Chair of the Board of Trustees; President Mee and Foundation Chair Dr. Walter Talamonti.
Member of the HFCC choral Group "Blue Fusion" entertained during the Board Holiday Dinner. Led by Jeremy Palmer (left), members included Cecilia Perry, Gwyneth Uszynski and Marion Esselman.
Approximately 60 attendees were at the 2011 Board Holiday Dinner including College Trustees, Foundation Directors, members of the President's Cabinet and guests. "This dinner is an annual tradition at the College," Dr. Mee said. "It is an opportunity for us to gather and celebrate the many successes of the year."
Foundation Executive Director holds up a parking pass (above photo) - a very valuable item on campus - and presents to Edsel Ford II (photo below), inviting him to visit campus often to meet and interact with HFCC students.
