Press Release
Jerry and Dorene Hammes Receive Chancellor’s Medal
Jerry and Dorene Hammes are the recipients of the 2016 Chancellor’s Medal from Indiana University South Bend Chancellor Terry L. Allison.
Jerry Hammes accepts Chancellor’s Medal Award.
The medal recognizes contributions that have helped advance the university and its mission. Recipients demonstrate outstanding support of IU South Bend and serve as exceptional advocates.
Jerry and Dorene provided the lead gift to establish the Hammes Information Commons in the Franklin D. Schurz Library. This is a one-stop research service center for the campus, which consolidates resources, technology, and assistance into an inviting location on the first floor.
A second gift established the Dorene Dwyer Hammes Media Commons and Café in the Schurz Library. This space provides an extensive range of audiovisual materials and equipment for students to help them create state-of-the-art multimedia presentations. They also provided funding for the Dorene Dwyer Hammes Grief and Loss Support Fund for the Student Counseling Center, the Catholic Newman Club on campus, and the General Scholarship fund for students in need.
Most recently Dorene and Jerry provided a gift to establish the Student Veterans Book Club. Now in its second year, the club is helping students, faculty, staff, and the community understand and support veterans and their families. In recognition of their role in successful fundraising, they were honored at the Indiana University Foundation Partners in Philanthropy dinner in 2010 with the Cornerstone Award.
Chancellor’s Medal.
Jerry has had a long and successful career in business, including real estate, banking, and transportation.
The award was presented at a ceremony on October 18. Last year’s recipient was the Vera Z. Dwyer Charitable Trust. Past winners include Darwin and Dorothy Wiekamp, Ernestine M. Raclin, Art Decio and Bob Deputy, Franklin D. Schurz, and Louise E. Addicott.
