Lori Richard Reidel K’77

The Jeff Little ’71
2026 Volunteer of the Year Award
Citation for Lori Richard Reidel K’77

Fifty years ago this fall, you embarked on your final year of study on College Hill. Time has not dimmed the gratitude you have for your Kirkland College education, nor your enthusiasm for the influence it has had on your life.

John Christopher ’83, P’14, with whom you served on the Alumni Council, said you are “a powerhouse of institutional loyalty” and “a guardian of the Hamilton-Kirkland legacy.” Your tenure on the Council’s Executive Committee was “defined by a deep institutional memory and a tireless commitment to the Kirkland College community. … [You] have been,” John said, “a primary architect in ensuring that the ‘green apple’ spirit remains vibrant and integrated within the broader Hamilton identity.”

Judy Gray K’78 said “connecting people is [your] superpower.” And your classmate, Susan Skerritt K’77, said you have worked thoughtfully, empathetically, and tirelessly “to keep us connected to one another and to ensure that Hamilton never loses sight of Kirkland’s vital place in its history.”

Jazmín Gatto de Torres ’02, P’29 won this award last year, so she knows something about being a generous volunteer for Hamilton. She also knows Lori.

“Lori is pure love and light,” Jazmín wrote. “As a Hamilton alumna, I feel a deep connection to my Kirkland roots and strive to embody the curiosity, strength, and bold creativity that define its legacy. Lori personifies the best virtues of Kirkland women: leading with grace, loving with strength, and nurturing our community with thoughtful insight she isn’t timid about sharing. … [Her] commitment to Hamilton/Kirkland community-building is endless; she effortlessly connects people with opportunities that foster personal and collective growth. She makes me feel part of a powerful sisterhood, and I am grateful to her for ensuring that the magic Kirkland brought to our Hill continues to thrive for all Hamiltonians so that we may all feel emboldened to follow our curiosity, able to create new things and ideas, and share them with the world.”

Your nominators say few individuals embody the spirit of this award “more fully, more joyfully, or with a greater long-term impact. The Hill is better, brighter, and full of life because of you.

Presented by Paul Reichert ’90
President, Alumni Association
October 2, 2026

Alumni Awards Home