Alumna of the Year: Dawn Tartaglione (’90)
Dr. Dawn Tartaglione is first female osteopathic physician to become a neurosurgeon and is currently Medical Director of Neurosurgery and Department of Surgery Chair at Bayhealth in Dover, DE. She is the former president of Truman’s Foundation Board of Directors.
Young Alumna of the Year: Ellie (Glenn) Harmon (’07)
Ellie Harmon is Director of Government Relations for St. Louis Children’s Hospital. In this role, she advocates for children’s health care issues on behalf of the hospital, their providers and staff and their patients and families in Washington, D.C. and in the Missouri and Illinois Legislatures. In 2022, she was honored with Truman’s Echo 25 award.
Distinguished Service: Rod Cooper (’88)
Following a successful career in business, holding titles such as President/Owner, Entrepreneur, Managing Director, Board Chairman, VP of Sales and VP of Operations, Rod Cooper retired in 2015 at the age of 49. Rod has been an involved Truman alumnus, helping build connections to other alumni influencers and reconnecting alumni back to the University.
Distinguished Service: Natalie Gerhart (’07)
Natalie Gerhart graduated from Truman State University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Marketing. She has stayed involved with Truman through her involvement in the Bullets Rugby team as well as the National Alumni Association.
Parade Grand Marshal: Pat Williams (’80, ’84, ’90)
Pat Williams dedicated his life to public education working as a special education teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal and Superintendent of the Kirksville Public School System. In 2014, he retired after thirty-three years in education.
Denise L. Smith Volunteer of the Year: Nick Ponche (’17)
Nick Ponche is the president of Truman’s St. Louis Alumni Chapter where he enjoys connecting alumni to each other and back to the University. He has a rich Truman family tradition: both parents, a sister and his twin brother are all Truman graduates. Nick was active in Greek life as a student, serving as president of TKE Fraternity.
More information on additional alumni awards, past recipients and how to nominate someone, visit Awards and Recognition or contact bulldogforever@truman.edu.