Written by Doug Goodnough
I recently learned that an organization ranks the prominent alumni of colleges and universities. I’m not quite sure of their methodology, but it was interesting to scroll through the website to see which Hillsdale College graduates were deemed “most notable.”
My name did not make the list, and deservedly so. But I recognized quite a few names, including a few who were classmates and friends. And there were several I did not recognize while perusing the “Top 44.”
It was worthwhile to take a few minutes and learn about those who have distinguished themselves as alumni of Hillsdale College.
During White & Blue Weekend each year, we conduct a similar exercise at the Alumni Awards Banquet. In fact, Hillsdale has honored its graduates in such a fashion for 74 years, bringing forward those who have lived and furthered the mission of the College in their own unique ways.
This year’s honorees were another impressive group of individuals who have impacted the world in part because of the educational foundation they received at their alma mater.
Juliane Malia Hillock, ’91, took a leap of faith and started a Hillsdale Member School in Gallup, New Mexico, serving some of the most impoverished families in the U.S.
John Burtka IV, ’12, is helping to spread the cause of classical education as president of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute.
Rob Fodor, ’84, has been a game-changer as a shooting coach for the NBA’s Miami Heat, while Tori Hope Petersen, ’17, has overcome tremendous personal adversity to become a best-selling author and champion for foster children.
Four very different paths but a common destination – teaching others to become the best version of themselves in their chosen fields. It’s what Hillsdale was founded on, “teaching all who want to learn.”
It is a good thing to take the time to acknowledge those who are furthering the mission of the College. They represent a much larger constituency that is also worthy of this recognition. In fact, at the awards reception, I met a few others who will probably be on that stage someday.
Hillsdale College is truly remarkable in its outreach, from Imprimis to the Center for Constructive Alternatives to an impressive menu of online courses. However, I would argue its greatest outreach is its alumni. They are “in the world,” contributing to a society that desperately needs “the good, the true, and the beautiful.”
That gives me comfort, and I hope it gives you comfort, too.
We love having current and retired professors teach classes during White & Blue Weekend. We are so grateful for the faculty who return during the summer to share their knowledge with our alumni and their families.
Professor of History Emeritus Dr. John Willson returned to impart some wisdom. The 85-year-old has been a staple of the faculty lineup since White & Blue Weekend began. However, when I saw the title of this year’s class, “The Last Lecture,” I knew that his streak may be coming to an end.
Indeed, it was his last time lecturing as part of White & Blue Weekend. His lecture focused on the 1950s and noted societal and other changes that came with the end of that decade. A few of his former students and several family members were in attendance. One had a special memory to share. Dick Danforth, ’79, said he attended Dr. Willson’s first Hillsdale College lecture in 1975, and being able to experience his last 50 years later was a special moment.
Near the end of his lecture, Dr. Willson took a moment to reflect on his career at Hillsdale College and acknowledge its role in today’s world.
“Dr. Larry Arnn is the best college president in America,” he said of Hillsdale’s current president. “I say that with great conviction and with some authority. My colleagues are the best teachers I have known in almost 60 years in this noble profession. I love them all, and I love you all.”
And we love you, Dr. Willson.
Doug Goodnough, ’90, is Hillsdale’s senior director of Alumni Marketing. He enjoys connecting with fellow alumni in new and wonderful ways.
Published in July 2025
