Tue Apr 29 21:20:00 UTC 2025: ## University of Delaware Honors Distinguished Alumni at Upcoming Ceremony

**Newark, DE – April 28, 2025** – The University of Delaware Alumni Association (UDAA) will celebrate the achievements of its most outstanding alumni at Alumni Weekend on June 6th. This year’s honorees represent diverse fields and embody the spirit of the Blue Hen community.

Three exceptional individuals will receive the prestigious Alumni Wall of Fame Award, recognizing their professional accomplishments, public service, and dedication to their alma mater. The recipients are:

* **Brigadier General James A. Benson (Class of 1990):** The first African American Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard, General Benson has a distinguished military career including service in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He is also a strong advocate for UD, leading fundraising efforts for scholarships in Africana studies and in memory of Keith Richards.

* **Karl Lieberman (Class of 1999):** Global Chief Creative Officer of Wieden+Kennedy, Lieberman has spearheaded iconic advertising campaigns for brands like Dos Equis and Kentucky Fried Chicken. He remains deeply connected to UD, establishing scholarships and internships for students in the visual communications program.

* **Joe McDonough (Class of 1983):** After the loss of his son to leukemia, McDonough founded The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, one of the largest childhood cancer charities globally. The foundation provides significant financial assistance and research funding, and partners with UD’s UDance fundraising initiative.

In addition, two alumni will receive the Outstanding Alumni Awards for their exemplary volunteer service to the university:

* **Carole Fleetwood Baker (Class of 1989):** A long-time volunteer and regional ambassador, Baker has tirelessly promoted alumni engagement and supported UD athletic programs.

* **Mary Ellen Payne (Classes of 1978 and 1980):** A retired senior vice president at Verizon, Payne dedicates her time to mentoring UD students and serving on various university boards and committees.

The awards ceremony will be held during Alumni Weekend on Friday, June 6th. For registration and further information, visit [insert website address here] or contact alumni-association@udel.edu.

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