Established in 2010, this award annually recognizes an outstanding trustee currently serving on the Board of an OFIC member college or university. It honors Attorney Earl F. Morris, a Wittenberg University graduate and founding partner of Porter, Wright, Morris, and Arthur, who served OFIC for 41 years and was an early inductee into the OFIC Hall of Excellence.

Earl F. Morris Trustee Award

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A Legacy Like No Other, About the Award’s Namesake:

Earl F. Morris

Earl F. Morris, Wittenberg University, Class of '30, lives in perpetuity as an individual whose tireless dedication to excellence personified the finest traditions and values of independent higher education. Through exemplary service to his cherished profession of law, his alma mater, the community, and government, his contributions and leadership touched the lives of many thousands of people from all walks of life. His total commitment to service knew no boundaries, as he gave with utmost generosity of his vision, wisdom, skills, and self.

He joined the corporate volunteers of OFIC in 1951, just after its incorporation in 1950, and was elected a Trustee in 1957, a position he held until his untimely death. Earl logged over 41 continuous years as a volunteer to the foundation—the longest continuous service in its history. He was always a participant, never just a bystander, in countless civic, educational, religious, and professional activities. To all of them, he brought the qualities of commitment, enthusiasm, intelligence, and industry that mark the true and effective leader.

Nominations Open for the 2026 Earl F. Morris Trustee Award

Submission Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026

OFIC campus trustees are invited to recognize one of their college or university trustees who have demonstrated commitment and service above and beyond the norm to the guidance and betterment of the institution and its students.

Guidelines for Nomination

Nomination request to be sent to the president, chief advancement officer and chief marketing contact.

Nomination package from our member institutions must consist of:

Letter from the campus president including the nominee’s:
- Commitment of time and effort to the work of the campus board of trustees over an extended period
- Outstanding leadership in board effectiveness
- Strong role in enhancing the academic and financial well-being of the campus
- Evidence of a student-centered focus, acting as an ambassador for students from recruitment through graduation and beyond
- Service characterized as above and beyond normal board service
Nominee’s one-page biography
Nominee’s high-resolution photo

Nomination Process

Nominations will be reviewed by OFIC and one honoree and up to two alternates will be selected.
The OFIC president will notify the campus president of their trustee’s selection.
The campus president will notify the honoree and confirm their availability to attend the OFIC Awards Luncheon event on April 8, 2026, in Columbus at the Grand Event Center.

Selection Process

Nominations should be submitted via the form below or emailed to Maria Torres Alaniz, Assistant to the President.

Nomination Info

Recent Earl F. Morris Trustee Honorees

Nancy Stillwagon

Nancy Stillwagon has served on the Lake Erie College Board of Directors for an impressive 39 years. A 1970 alumna of the College, Stillwagon has led with integrity and vision, holding key leadership roles and shaping strategic decisions during times of challenge and transformation. Her philanthropic commitment reflects deep dedication to her alma mater’s enduring success. The Earl F. Morris Trustee Award recognizes her extraordinary leadership and service and was presented by Lake Erie College President Jen Schuller.

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John "Jack" Newman

Newman's extensive tenure of 29 years as an Ursuline College trustee and 14 years as its chair exemplifies his unwavering commitment and leadership. His strategic vision and forward-thinking approach were evident in his remarks during the acceptance speech, where he expressed deep gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored to receive this award and to have had the opportunity to contribute to Ursuline College's growth and success over the years."

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George Fenton

As president of Fenton Art Glass and grandson of company founder Frank L. Fenton, George worked closely with other Fenton family members involved in all aspects of the company. With the organization since 1972, George served as foreman of the Decorating Department and manager of manufacturing before becoming president in 1986. He states, "I am most satisfied when I can contribute to solving a difficult production problem."

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Dr. Robert Head, III

As a man of color who witnessed his campus go from a small percentage of students who were not white during his undergraduate years to a campus today that is nearly 50 percent diverse (mostly students who are African American and Hispanic), Dr. Head is actively participating in the success of young people that is so important to the success of our communities, our country, and our world.

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